News & Observer | newsobserver.com | 2008 NCAA Men's Bracket

For all the attention given to the Canes' Brandon Sutter and his recovery from a major concussion, defenseman Joni Pitkanen also missed eight games and has battled his way back from injury.

Both players were injured in the Oct. 25 game against the New York Islanders. Pitkanen injured a knee along the boards, requiring surgery to repair a meniscus tear. Like Sutter, he returned a week ago for the Washington Capitals game at the RBC Center.

"It's always tough the first couple of games to get back," Pitkanen said. "My knee feels pretty good, I feel pretty good on the skates and I think everything is getting better."

Late in the game Sunday against Tampa Bay, the score was tied 2-2 when Pitkanen and Eric Staal suddenly had a 2-on-1 opportunity. But Pitkanen couldn't control the puck and make the pass, and the opportunity quickly vanished.

At the time, it seemed a product of Pitkanen's time away, a play he normally would have made with ease. Not so, though, he said.

"I don't think it had to do with me not playing for four weeks," he said. "The puck was bouncing a lot. Normally I can make that pass. But it happens sometimes."

Pitkanen, who had assists against the Caps and Lightning, appeared to be skating and passing with more confidence last night in the 2-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens. He was active offensively, with four shots on goal, two shots that were blocked and another two shots that missed the net.

Against Tampa Bay and Montreal, he had almost 24 minutes of ice time each game.

"The first couple of games, you do feel a little more tired," Pitkanen said. "I think I'm starting to play better."