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Pavel Datsyuk says he's ready to play Thursday in Russia's Olympic opener.

(AP File Photo)

Pavel Datsyuk is good to go in the Winter Olympics opener for Russia.

The Detroit Red Wings forward, who missed 14 games due to a knee injury before returning for the final two outings entering the NHL's Olympic break, declared himself ready for Thursday's game against Slovenia after taking part in practice this morning in Sochi, Russia.

Datsyuk did not practice with Russia Monday after traveling Sunday.

"Everything is fine," Datsyuk said in an NHL.com story. "My injury doesn't bother me at all. I'm fully [acclimated]. We are all in the same condition."

This is the fourth time Datsyuk has played in the Olympics but this appearance is more special than the others. Not only is he the Russian captain but the Olympic are being held in his homeland.

"All my life," Datsyuk said when asked how long he'd been awaiting this opportunity. "It's a good feeling [to be captain]. Now, to come back and play in a home Olympics in front of your fans; it's an unbelievable feeling."

Datsyuk is one of 10 Red Wings playing in the Olympics. Mike Babcock is Canada's head coach after leading the Canadians to the 2010 gold medal in Vancouver.

The

begins Wednesday.