Wheeler returns to Jets lineup vs. Panthers

Winnipeg Jets captain Blake Wheeler will return to the lineup on Friday against the Florida Panthers, according to interim head coach Dave Lowry.

Dave Lowry confirms Blake Wheeler will return to the #NHLJets lineup tomorrow vs FLA. Mark Scheifele remains day-to-day but did not travel with the team on this trip.

Wheeler, 35, suffered an upper-body injury during the Jets' 3-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings on April 6.

The 6-foot-5 forward has 12 goals and 54 points in 57 games this season.

While Wheeler is returning, forward Mark Scheifele is considered to be day-to-day with an upper-body injury and did not travel with the Jets to Florida.

Scheifele, 29, sustained the injury during Sunday's 4-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators after taking a high hit from Senators forward Parker Kelly.

The 6-foot-3 forward has 29 goals and 70 points in 67 games this season.

The Jets sit in sixth place in the Central Division and are seven points back of the Dallas Stars for the second Wild Card position with eight games remaining.