Patrik Laine 'very close' to returning to Jets' lineup

Expect Winnipeg Jets forward Patrik Laine back in the NHL team's lineup sooner rather than later.

The 18-year-old forward has made enough progress in his recovery from a concussion in recent days that head coach Paul Maurice told reporters Laine could play as early as Tuesday against the San Jose Sharks.

Laine has not suited up since Jan. 7 when he was concussed after taking a big open-ice hit from Buffalo Sabres defenceman Jake McCabe.

At a news conference Monday, Maurice said Laine has responded well to practice and is "very, very close to returning."

"He went a lot harder [in practice] than we thought he would be able to," Maurice continued. "He feels really good. He's been banging on the door a little bit here. He's feeling strong. He's feeling ready."

The Jets host the Anaheim Ducks on Monday, before playing the second of a back-to-back on Tuesday against the Sharks.

Winnipeg has won three of its last seven games since losing Laine, including dropping four in a row between Jan.11-16.

Laine is currently second in rookie points (37), one back of Toronto Maple Leafs' No. 1 overall pick Auston Matthews. The Jets sniper has 21 goals and is also one shy of Matthews for the rookie lead.