Sharks’ Couture explains what need to happen before he returns, as timeline comes more into focus

SAN JOSE – Logan Couture, the injured San Jose Sharks captain, has expressed his wish to fully participate in a minimum of two practices before considering a return to the team lineup. This would mean a possible return to the game as early as this weekend if his skating continues without any hitches. The Sharks are slated to practice both Wednesday and Friday this week at home, concluding their three-game home stretch on Saturday afternoon with a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Couture conveyed his intention to the Bay Area News Group on Tuesday, stating, "I want to practice twice." The captain has been out due to a lower body injury sustained pre-training camp and is cautiously taking each day as it comes, as his full participation in Wednesday's practice remains uncertain. He joined the Sharks' morning skates Tuesday in preparation for their match against the Detroit Red Wings at the SAP Center.

Couture, who had a couple of setbacks in his recovery from this undisclosed injury which took him off the ice for approximately a month in November, reported feeling significantly better at the start of December after starting therapy with a physical therapist in San Francisco. He expressed, "Just something clicked. Felt much better, skated more often, managed not to further injure myself.”

Couture, who was diligently following certain rehabilitation exercises four or five times a week, stated he might continue the same even after his return to the game. The 34-year old with 700 points in 927 NHL regular season games stated, "I presume it's something that will remain with me for the rest of my career...As it is professional sports, peak physical condition is paramount, therefore I will do whatever it takes to maintain it.”

A boost from Couture is much needed by the Sharks who are struggling with their worst record in the NHL at 9 25 3, and an ongoing eight-game losing streak, with a 35 11 outscore in their favor during this time. Couture, who has played a crucial role in the Sharks through his 14-year NHL career, also matches up against the opposing teams' top lines.

Mario Ferraro, the Sharks' defenseman, appreciating Couture's potential return, affirmed, "It's going to be significant, he is our captain and our leader...His return will be monumental not only for his gameplay, but also for his presence, energy, and determination."

Following Saturday's game, the Sharks are due to commence a five-game road trip from Jan. 9-16 with visits to Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Buffalo, and Chicago.