Craig Cunningham skates at Tucson Arena

Former NHL forward Craig Cunningham put on his skates and returned to the ice Friday for the first time since going into cardiac arrest before an American Hockey League game Nov. 19.

Cunningham was aided by physical therapists and Conor Garland, his teammate with Tucson of the AHL, before a morning skate at Tucson Arena.

Cunningham, 26, was Tucson captain when he collapsed before a game against Manitoba. He had part of his left leg amputated and is walking with help of a prosthetic. He has become a source of inspiration for the Arizona Coyotes and NHL communities.

Cunningham participated in a ceremonial puck drop before the Roadrunners game against San Jose on March 25 and will drop the ceremonial first puck as part of Fan Appreciation Night before the Coyotes play the Minnesota Wild on April 8.
A fourth-round pick (No. 97) of the Boston Bruins in the 2010 NHL Draft, Cunningham had three goals and five assists in 65 games with the Bruins and Coyotes