Lidstrom questionable for Sunday

Mar 8, 2008 - 1:14 AM DETROIT (Ticker) -- Nicklas Lidstrom is on the verge of returning to the Detroit Red Wings' lineup.

Lidstrom, who has been out since suffering a sprained MCL on February 18, practiced with the club Friday and seemed optimistic about returning soon.

"It felt a lot better today," he said. "I'm able to go backwards to forwards, open up my hips."

The five-time Norris Trophy winner hinted that he may be ready to return as early as Sunday, when the Red Wings face the Nashville Predators.

"I'll probably talk to the trainers, and the doctor as well, and we'll see after practice tomorrow," Lidstrom said. "We'll see what they think and we'll see if I'm ready to go."

Lidstrom's return would help bolster an injury-plagued defense corps in Detroit. Brian Rafalski just returned Wednesday after missing eight games with a groin injury, but veteran Chris Chelios still is out with a right leg ailment.

The 37-year-old Lidstrom has seven goals and 50 assists with a league-best plus-39 rating on the season.