New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur expects to return from a bruised shoulder some time this week.
"If it's not the next two games, it's a good chance it'll be Saturday,'' Brodeur said of his return.
Brodeur was removed from injured reserve Monday and his emergency replacement, Keith Kincaid, was returned to Albany of the AHL. The move suggests that Brodeur is at least ready to assume backup duties behind Johan Hedberg, but Devils coach Pete DeBoer said the club could recall Kincaid if Brodeur is not capable of filling the backup role.
The Devils play the Toronto Maple Leafs Wednesday, Philadelphia Flyers Thursday and Winnipeg Jets Saturday.
Deboer said there is a possibility Brodeur could play Wednesday, but it's not a sure thing. Brodeur has been absent from action since Oct. 13, when he injured his shoulder while trying to make a save during a 2-1 shootout victory against the Los Angeles Kings.
Brodeur particpated in practice Monday and said he felt "pretty good" afterward.
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