Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is set to return from a 12-game absence Saturday against the Washington Capitals.
Hellebuyck, 32, was activated off injured reserve earlier in the day and is now set to make his first appearance between the pipes for Winnipeg since Nov. 15.
The Commerce Township, Mich. native underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Nov. 22 and was initially given a return timeline of four-to-six weeks, but is returning three weeks to the date of his procedure.
The reigning Hart Trophy winner was a full participant at practice in each of the past three days, and is now ready to make his much-anticipated return from injury.
The Jets have struggled with Hellebuyck sidelined, playing to a 3-8-1 record to fall down to seventh place in the Central Division.
Hellebuyck has compiled an 8-6-0 record with a 2.51 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage in 14 starts for Winnipeg this season.