#LGRW Daily: Dylan Larkin returns to Red Wings practice on Sunday

DETROIT -- After missing the last four games with an upper-body injury, Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin was a full participant in the team's practice on Sunday at Little Caesars Arena.

Coach Jeff Blashill wouldn't commit to Larkin's return to the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Little Caesars Arena, but said he's trending in the right direction.
"I'll use (today and tomorrow) to find that out," Blashill said when asked about Larkin's status for Tuesday. "I don't anticipate one way or the other right now. We'll find out as we go through it. He finished the practice today, so that's a good sign."

Larkin had been skating at Little Caesars Arena while the team was on its four-game road trip and said he felt good during Sunday's practice. He hopes to return to the lineup as the Red Wings (7-16-3) open a six-game homestand and look to snap a three-game winless streak.
"We've stuck together, but we have to find a way to start getting some wins here and some positive energy," said Larkin, who sits second on the team with 11 points in 22 games. "I felt it was coming, but it's hard when the team's on the road and you're at home, so you're not really in the room with the guys. I know we battle for each other and we just need some results now."
Along with Larkin, defenseman Troy Stecher also resumed skating with the team on Sunday. Stecher has missed the last seven games with a lower-body injury. The blueliner has four assists in 19 games for Detroit this season.
Forward Tyler Bertuzzi remains sidelined and did not skate with the team on Sunday. He's missed the last 17 games with an upper-body injury dating back to Jan. 30 against Florida. Prior to his injury, Bertuzzi had seven points (5-2-7) in nine games.

Blashill said Bertuzzi's recovery process has taken longer than originally expected, but that the Red Wings forward is continuing to progress in his treatment.
"He's been a real key piece for us over the years," said Blashill. "I think he's a big-time winning hockey player. I've thought that for a long time since my first experience with him in Grand Rapids when he came into the playoffs and helped us win games there. I think Bert is a really good player. We're missing a real good player.
"When you miss a guy like that, it has an effect. It'll be nice to get him back whenever that is."
Detroit and Tampa Bay will square off for the third of eight meetings on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena. Fans can catch all the action on FOX Sports Detroit and 97.1 The Ticket.