When will goalie Juuse Saros return for Nashville Predators? Why coach John Hynes offered hope

DENVER — The return of the All-Star goalie Juuse Saros is a "possibility," according to Nashville Predators coach John Hynes.

Hynes said Thursday morning that Saros, who is out with a lower-body injury, could return after his team's first-round playoff series with the Colorado Avalanche shifts to Nashville this weekend.

"There's a possibility," Hynes said ahead of Game 2 on Thursday. "That's still a work in progress. I wouldn't rule it out at this point."

Saros skated Wednesday after the team's practice at Ball Arena, though he wasn't wearing his goalie gear and spent most of the time flinging pucks toward a net, presumably testing his left ankle.

David Rittich started Game 1 Tuesday but was pulled during the first period after allowing five goals. Connor Ingram relieved him, and stopped 24 of the 25 shots he faced in his NHL playoff debut.

He was tabbed as the starter for Game 2 on Thursday.

Game 3 will be Saturday at Bridgestone Arena, with Game 4 Monday.

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Reach Paul Skrbina at pskrbina@tennessean.com and follow him on Twitter @PaulSkrbina.