Pronger back, but MacInnis will keep the 'C'

ST. LOUIS -- Blues defenseman Chris Pronger will be back on the ice today for the first time since he was hurt in a playoff game last season.

For now, the "C" will be missing.

Pronger has been practicing for several weeks as he recovers from severe knee and wrist injuries. He announced his return Friday following the team's morning workout.

At Pronger's urging, fellow defenseman Al MacInnis will continue as captain through the end of this season.

"Chris thought it would be best to keep the situation with our captain status quo," general manager Larry Pleau said. "Right now Chris feels it is important for him to just focus on returning to our team."

Doug Weight and Scott Mellanby will continue to serve as alternate captains. Pronger will take over again as captain next season.

"Al has done such a great job handling our team this year under such adversity," Pronger said, " this is the best thing for our club right now."

The Blues host Central Division rival Detroit today. A win would move St. Louis within three points of the division-leading Red Wings. Both teams have five games remaining.

Pronger was the most valuable player and Norris Trophy winner as the league's top defenseman in 2000. His return comes at a time when the injury-riddled Blues may be nearing their healthiest point of the season, with the playoffs less than two weeks away.

Winger Keith Tkachuk is practicing again after spraining his wrist in a game at Vancouver on March 13. Valeri Bure, acquired in a trade deadline deal with Florida, will play his first game for St. Louis today. Bure has been out for about a month-and-a-half with a sprained knee.

Expected back by the end of the season are Petr Cajanek (facial cuts) and Martin Rucinsky (shoulder). Two players suspended for their actions in a game against Dallas on Sunday will also return. Reed Lowe will be back today following a two-game suspension. Jeff Finley will be back Thursday following a four-game suspension.