CENTENNIAL – Anton Lindholm will return to the Avalanche lineup Friday night against the Minnesota Wild. That was one of several encouraging items health-wise regarding the team Thursday.

Erik Johnson (separated shoulder) has resumed skating, but did not handle pucks and there is no firm timetable on a possible return.
“It’s part of his rehab,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said.

Goalie Jonathan Bernier (concussion) practiced with the team and took shots, which Bednar said was for the first time since going down last week. If all continues to go well, he could be activated again soon, but for now he remains officially on the shelf.

Defenseman Anton Lindholm has been activated again and will play against the Minnesota Wild Friday night at the Pepsi Center. David Warsofsky was reassigned to San Antonio of the AHL.

Forward Vladislav Kamenev practiced in a non-contact sweater, but Bednar said he is close to being activated and that, when he is, he’ll stay with the Avs and play. It was first thought that Kamenev would start playing again in San Antonio, but Bednar said no, he will stay with Colorado.

Forward Sven Andrighetto (leg) practiced in a non-contact jersey and is closer to a return, but nothing is definite just yet.

Newcome Mark Alt had his first practice with the team, but will be a healthy scratch against the Wild.