Thrashers will have Enstrom tonight vs. Rangers

Atlanta Thrashers defenseman Tobias Enstrom is ready to start a new streak.

The team's all-time leader in consecutive games played at 296 before a broken finger on his right hand sidelined him last month will make his return to the lineup Friday against the New York Rangers at Philips Arena.

"It's been tough," Enstrom said. "It's my first time being hurt and watching from the side is tough. I want to be out there and play the game."

Enstrom, who had never missed a game in his NHL career prior to getting hurt, has 8 goals, 41 points and a plus-2 rating in 50 games this season. He's tied for fifth in points by a defenseman.

After practicing each of the past two days, Enstrom and Atlanta coach Craig Ramsay expressed hope the player would return to the lineup soon. On Friday, he got his wish.

"He's been brilliant for us," Ramsay said. "Obviously, we missed him. He's a guy that makes people around him better. He plays a lot of minutes. He handles the puck well. He's very cool under pressure. He's been important on the power play. Having him back in the lineup is a big step forward."

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