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Briere may return as Flyers aim for third straight win

Feb 27, 2009 - 11:24 AM Montreal (32-22-7) at Philadelphia (33-17-9), 7:00 pm EST

PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) -- The Philadelphia Flyers aren't in need of a boost, but they may get one anyway.

Daniel Briere could return to the lineup Friday after a 35-game absence when the Flyers face the Montreal Canadiens, seeking their third consecutive victory.

Briere has missed 50 games this season due to a groin injury. The 31-year-old center has recorded five goals and nine points in nine contests on the campaign.

The Flyers, who went 2-4-3 with Briere in the lineup, have hardly missed the former first-round pick of the Phoenix Coyotes. Philadelphia, which has won five of its last six contests, has climbed to fourth place in the Eastern Conference.

Jeff Carter, who is tied for second in the NHL with 36 goals this season, collected a tally and an assist during Wednesday's 2-0 triumph over the Los Angeles Kings. Martin Biron made 34 saves to post his second shutout of the season and 25th career.

Jaroslav Halak is also coming off a 34-save blanking, leading the Canadiens to a 3-0 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday.

Halak, who may displace Carey Price as the club's starting netminder, is 14-10-1 with a 2.93 goals-against average and .910 save percentage on the campaign.