Canadiens captain Gionta cleared for contact

Montreal Canadiens captain Brian Gionta has been cleared for contact in his return form a torn left biceps tendon sustained last season.

The wing skated Wednesday on the fifth line with Michael Bournival and Martin St. Pierre.

Gionta was injured during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators. He had surgery May 10.

Forward George Parros and defenseman Douglas Murray did not practice.