St. Louis Blues forward T.J. Oshie will be in the lineup for Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night, according to head coach Ken Hitchcock on Tuesday afternoon.
Stanley Cup playoffs 2013: T.J. Oshie in for Game 1, Vladimir Tarasenko scratched
Ken Hitchcock views the opening of the playoffs as a place for veteran players. With that in mind, T.J. Oshie will be playing in place of Vladimir Tarasenko in Game 1 on Tuesday night.
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Oshie missed all of April due to issues with his ankle. Previously diagnosed as a bone bruise, he ultimately required surgery on what turned out to be a stress fracture. After returning to practice last week, Oshie stated he hoped to return for Game 1 of the playoffs.
With Oshie coming back into the lineup, Hitchcock has decided to sit rookie forward Vladimir Tarasenko.
The head coach explained he views the opening of the playoffs as a place for veterans to display their desire to win. He believes Tarasenko will have a chance to play this postseason but did not indicate when that would happen. Hitchcock stated Tarasenko has played his best when rested and hopes he can come into the series as a rested player.
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