Canucks reassign Zalewski to Utica, Sutter expected to play tomorrow

After a two-game stint with the Canucks, Mike Zalewski is on his way back to the Utica Comets.

After the Canucks signed Zalewski to a two-way contract last week, he was called up for games against the Bruins and Penguins, averaging 11:51 of ice time and picking up one assist.

Zalewski’s demotion is likely a sign that Brandon Sutter is ready to return from injury. Sutter, who had sports hernia surgery back in November, has missed the last 33 games.

Sutter should give the Canucks a huge boost. Penciled in as the team’s second line centre before the season began, he’ll likely be slotted in as Vancouver’s #3 centre tomorrow against Nashville. Sutter has been missed most on the penalty kill and his return should improve the team’s 20th ranked PK unit.

Vancouver plays the Nashville Predators at home tomorrow night in their last game before the NHL All-Star break.