Rangers center Brassard back at practice

New York Rangers forward Derick Brassard practiced Friday, according to the Rangers website. It was Brassard's first team involvement since being diagnosed with the mumps Dec. 14.

He was in his regular spot between Rick Nash and Mats Zuccarello at practice.

"I didn't have any headaches or anything," Brassard said, according to the website. "I was just stuck in my apartment for five days. I'm probably going to skate tomorrow with the extra guys and go from there. Hopefully I can get back to the way I was playing."

Brassard missed a 5-2 win against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday. Tanner Glass, who previously was diagnosed with the mumps, took Brassard's place in the lineup.

The Rangers play Saturday at the Carolina Hurricanes. Coach Alain Vigneault said after practice he expects Brassard to play Saturday.

J.T. Miller, who was skating in Brassard's spot, on Friday was shifted to right wing on the third line in place of Lee Stempniak. Stempniak was isolated from the team Thursday and is being tested for the mumps, the Rangers said.