Avalanche left wing Peter Mueller might return to the lineup Thursday when struggling Colorado hosts the New York Islanders at the Pepsi Center.
Mueller, who has played in just 18 games over three seasons with the Avs, practiced with the Matt Duchene-centered line today and will be reevaluated after Thursday morning’s skate.
“He made it through practice today, a contact practice, looks like he’s improving, looks good,” Avs coach Joe Sacco said of Mueller. “So what we’re going to do is let him have the pregame skate tomorrow morning and then we’ll see how he feels after that and make a decision then. So he could be available.”
Mueller, 23, has missed the last 12 games after playing ineffectively in the first three, and was eventually put on the injured list with a “head” problem. He suffered concussions late in 2009-10 and at the beginning of last season. He missed all of 2010-12.
Colorado is on a four-game losing streak and 1-5 at home, where it has scored just seven goals.
“Just taking one day at a time,” Mueller said. “Everything has been going smoothly. The coaching staff and the medical staff have been behind me 110 percent. We’re not really putting a commitment date on (a return to the lineup); we’re just seeing how every day goes.”
David Jones is playing right wing on the Duchene line.
“We’re excited. He’s a guy who has a lot of talent, a lot of skill,” Jones said of Mueller. “He should help us offensively. He’s been working really hard. It’s tough to be around the team and not being able to play. We’re happy to have him back.”
Mike Chambers: 303-954-1357 or mchambers@denverpost.com
