DETROIT – Detroit Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader was back on the ice Wednesday, in the fresh air at Comerica Park, his headaches and dizziness having subsided after a hit to the head on Saturday.

Abdelkader joined most of his teammates – the ones that are healthy – for the special practice at the rink that will host numerous events during the Winter Festival.

Abdelkader said he’s feeling much better but isn’t sure when he’ll be cleared to play. He’s hoping for Monday, the final game before the Christmas break, but if not, it shouldn’t be long after that.

“I’m working my way back; it’s a process,” Abdelkader said. “As long as I have no setbacks we’ll keep building it each day.

“Need to talk to Piet (trainer Van Zant). Hopefully (return) soon, maybe before (Christmas) break; not ruling that out as long as there are no setbacks.”

Penguins defenseman Deryk Engelland was suspended five games by the NHL today for checking Abdelkader in the head in the final minute of the first period of Pittsburgh's 4-1 victory on Saturday.



“I don’t think he was trying to hit me in the head at all,” Abdelkader said. “He was just trying to take the body there and got me in the head. It’s an unfortunate play.”

“The league has done a good job of cutting down on those hits."