Veteran Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Kimmo Timonen is hoping he can safely return to action this season.

The talented 39-year-old puck-moving defender has been inactive all season as a result of blood clots that were found in his legs and lungs this summer.

Timonen is currently awaiting the results of some blood tests, which will determine whether or not he can safely return to NHL action. Those results are expected in the next 10 days, according to CSN's Tim Panaccio.

Timonen told reporters in Philadelphia on Saturday that his situation is complicated by a hereditary blood disorder. He'll have to manage his condition with medication for the rest of his life.

If he can return to action safely though, he'll do it:

Timonen said he wants to "retire with my skates on, not my shoes" if possible but won't try to play unless it can be done safely. — Bill Meltzer (@billmeltzer) January 10, 2015

In the event that Timonen receives clearance to begin skating, he'll meet with Flyers brass to determine whether or not his return to NHL action is possible.

Should Timonen return to play this season, he'll be a shoe-in for the Masterton Trophy.