Flyers' Downie feeling better, could return Saturday

Philadelphia Flyers forward Steve Downie skated Thursday as he continues his recovery from a concussion sustained during a game against the Washington Capitals on Nov. 1.

Downie spent Friday and Saturday in a hospital being evaluated. He was released Sunday.

"I wasn't too scared," he told reporters in Philadelphia. "It was precautionary reasons. They got a couple X-rays done. It's healing well. Should be back soon."

The injury occurred during a fight with Washington's Aaron Volpatti. It was Downie's first game back with the Flyers since being acquired in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche on Oct. 31.

Downie's left eye is badly bruised and he skated wearing a full face shield and football-type facemask to protect his face.

While Downie said his vision is fine, he said he's having problems with his sinuses.

"That's the issues that I'm having, the sinuses," he said. "So I'm just waiting for that to clear up and start breathing again. Mainly sinuses right now."

Downie will not play Thursday but did not rule out a return for the Flyers' game Saturday against the visiting Edmonton Oilers. The team lists him as day-to-day.

"It's good to see [Downie] skating already," Flyers coach Craig Berube said. "Hoping he'll be back soon."