Hamilton returns to Devils' lineup ahead of playoffs

The New Jersey Devils got a big boost ahead of the postseason.

Dougie Hamilton returned to the lineup for Wednesday's regular-season finale against the Detroit Red Wings.

The defenseman hadn't played since suffering a lower-body injury March 4. He's back ahead of schedule, as the club initially expected him to miss all of Round 1.

Hamilton has recorded 40 points in 63 games this season, second to Luke Hughes (44) among Devils blue-liners.

The 6-foot-6, 230-pounder has tallied nine goals and 20 assists in 66 career playoff appearances. The Devils will play the Carolina Hurricanes, Hamilton's former team, in Round 1.