Knuble likely to return for Game 4, Gagne still on the horizon

(AP Photo/Tom Mihalek)

Things just keep getting better for the Flyers. Following last nights 3-2 win over the Canadiens, the Flyers also learned that one of the heroes of their first round win over the Washington Capitals is set to return. Mike Knuble, who hasn't played since Game 5 against Washington, believes he will be ready to play in Game 4 on Wednesday. Knuble, who suffered a partially torn hamstring when his skate got caught up in the ice, initially was expected to miss up to two weeks, and a return Wednesday would be slightly ahead of schedule.

Knuble would add a nice lift to a Flyers team that is gelling at just the right time. He would likely push Steve Downie out of the line-up, which is fine by me. Knuble's scoring touch and leadership will be nice to have back and Downie, while he brings plenty of energy, still has a penchant for taking too many penalties.

Knuble's return leaves just one Flyer out due to injury: Simon Gagne. Gagne said about a month ago that he could return if the Flyers make the Stanley Cup Finals. When he initially made that statement, I thought there was no way we would see him again this year, but with the way they are playing right now, the possibility is there. As much as I would cringe every time he was hit, getting a big time scorer like Gagne back would be huge. Could you imagine a top line of Gagne, Danny Briere and Vinny Prospal?

UPDATE: Knuble confirmed for Game 4.