Booth's return to Canucks delayed

Vancouver Canucks forward David Booth was expected to see his first game action since sustaining an ankle injury March 16. But that return has been delayed.

The 28-year-old was considered likely to be in Vancouver's lineup Saturday night when it plays the Edmonton Oilers in a preseason game at Rexall Place, according to the Canucks website. But coach John Tortorella revealed to the Vancouver Province that Booth hurt his groin during the team's game-day skate and will not play.

Nicklas Jensen will take Booth's spot against the Oilers.

Booth was acquired from the Florida Panthers during the 2011-12 season but has not played since sustaining the ankle injury after crashing into the boards against the Detroit Red Wings last season. He underwent ankle surgery a few days later, ending a season in which he was limited to 12 games after coming back from a groin injury in training camp.

Booth had a goal and three points in 12 games last season after getting 29 points in 56 games with Vancouver in 2011-12.