The Florida Panthers expect an update on the status of injured forward Todd Bertuzzi on Monday, coach Jacques Martin said Thursday.

Bertuzzi, 31, has played in only seven games this season, none since Oct. 18. He underwent back surgery on Nov. 2.


Martin said Bertuzzi has a weekend appointment to see Dr. Guillermo Pasarin, who performed the surgery, "So we should have a better idea (of Bertuzzi's return). I think he's progressing well.

Martin said he thinks Bertuzzi might be ready to play "sometime in February."

"I think the first step will be for him to be well enough to start practicing with the team."

Bertuzzi has been skating on his own for 45 minutes to an hour at a time and next step will be practicing with the team.

"Obviously I'd love to come out now," he said, "but I'd be more of a hazard than anything.

"I've got to start skating with the guys. ... It's just a matter of getting into the game situations and being pushed on and leaned on."

The worst thing about the injury?

"Not playing," he said. "I've never really missed a season. I've played every single game for the past six to eight years."

That's close to being true. Since the 1999-2000 season, Bertuzzi has averaged 77 games a season. Of the 28 games he missed, 23 were because of suspensions.

Bertuzzi, who has scored at least 25 goals in five of his past six seasons, is eager to return and help Florida's sporadic offense.

"I know I'd be able to go out there and contribute and help this team out," he said. "We've had about 12 to 5 ... one-goal games, and I know I'm capable of making a difference in those games.

"We're still in this race, and hopefully when I get back I can help contribute and get us over the edge."