Rasmussen returns: Rookie Michael Rasmussen returns to the lineup for the first time since being sidelined by a hamstring Jan. 4. Rasmussen had two goals in three conditioning games with Grand Rapids. Coach Jeff Blashill watched a livestream of the Griffins’ 2-1 victory Wednesday against Manitoba. “I thought he was excellent,” Blashill said. “As the game went along, he controlled the puck really well. I would think that would put him in a position to come back with lots of confidence.
“Coming off the injury where he hadn’t played in a long time, I think it’s great he got a chance to go down and play three games, have some success.