Penguins G Fleury to start vs. Thrashers

Dec 18, 2008 - 12:35 AM PITTSBURGH (Ticker) -- Marc-Andre Fleury is ready to make his return to the ice.

Pittsburgh Penguins coach Michel Therrien confirmed Wednesday that the goaltender will start the team's next game against the Atlanta Thrashers.

"He's going to play (Thursday)," Therrien said. "He feels good. It's good for him to get some practice under his belt. I think his timing is sharp now and I think he's ready to play."

"I'm looking forward to getting back in there," Fleury said. "It's been a while now. It's always frustrating when you're out. I wanted to get back as quick as I could."

Fleury has been sidelined with a groin injury, suffered November 15 against the Buffalo Sabres.

The 24-year-old Fleury, who helped lead the Penguins to the Stanley Cup Finals last season, is 8-3-2 with a 2.86 goals-against-average this season.