Minnesota Wild's center, Joel Eriksson Ek, skated by himself at the TRIA Rink in downtown St. Paul for the first time after suffering a lower-body injury on April 6 during a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Although the Wild listed him as week-to-week, Eriksson Ek's evident progress bodes well for his return. Even though his coach, Dean Evason, was hesitant to give a timeline for his return or his readiness for Game 1, it seems that it could be a possibility. Similarly, Marcus Johansson, who took a cross-check directly to the ribs in a game against the Dallas Stars and avoided any serious injuries, returned to the ice for the Wild's practice after stating he's feeling 100 per cent. The Wild will certainly benefit from having these players return to the game, particularly Eriksson Ek's outstanding record of career highs in assists, points, and goals. The Wild are currently leading the series 2-1, and the return of Eriksson Ek and Johansson can potentially secure a win in the upcoming matches.