Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman reveals target date for return from injury

Rarely, if ever, have the Pittsburgh Penguins had a fully healthy roster, but one of their most extended absentees is finally on the verge of a return.

Caleb Jones made headlines by skating with the team for the first time since he was put on the injured reserve list due to a lower-body injury on Oct. 25. Jones was hurt in an awkward moment after he was bumped by the Florida Panthers' Brad Marchand.

Since then, he has only been able to do some exercises alone. He was wearing the white no-contact sweater at the team's optional skate.

This rehab process has been quite lengthy for Jones as he has never been sidelined for this prolonged a period in his entire NHL career.

However, Jones managed to stay occupied during his rehabilitation and worked on keeping himself fit until he was cleared by the team.

The 28-year-old Jones inked a two-year, $1.8 million deal with the Penguins in the summer and had one assist in seven games until his injury.

He also thought that his line with rookie defenseman Harrison Brunicke was heading in the right direction; however, the 18-year-old Brunicke was reassigned back to the WHL's Kamloops Blazers earlier this week.

Although no official return date has been determined, a possible return has been identified by Jones as the upcoming game against the Columbus Blue Jackets next weekend.

The Penguins also have a roster that can accommodate Jones. Forward Ville Koivunen was reassigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

Thus, the Penguins currently have 13 forwards, seven defensemen, and two goaltenders. With this, the Penguins can now activate Jones.

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