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Johnson returns to Avalanche lineup after month-long absence

Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty

In the midst of a deadlocked hunt for a playoff spot, the Colorado Avalanche will receive a huge boost Sunday, as defenseman Erik Johnson will play against the Detroit Red Wings after missing a month with an upper-body injury, the team announced.

Johnson's return couldn't have come at a better time, as the Avalanche are in quite the battle for a wild-card spot in the Western Conference:

WC rank Team Points
1 Avalanche 84
2 Stars 84
3 Ducks 84
3 Blues 81
4 Flames 80

The Los Angeles Kings, who currently sit in third in the Pacific Division, are also at 84 points.

Every point will matter down the stretch, and having a steadying presence return to the blue line will be key. In 56 games this season, Johnson has 22 points while averaging a team-high 25:43 time on ice.

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