Left wing Jonathan Drouin returned to the Montreal Canadiens' lineup on Saturday in a 2-1 overtime win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Drouin, recovering from wrist surgery, last played Nov. 15 for the Canadiens and returns in time for a pivotal stretch as Montreal clings to contention in the congested Eastern Conference playoff race.
Drouin, 24, played on the third line against Toronto, alongside Max Domi and Artturi Lehkonen. After missing 37 games, he had 11:49 of ice time Saturday.
Prior to the injury, Drouin had seven goals and 15 points.
The Canadiens have won three straight and seven of their past nine. They are now five points behind the Maple Leafs for third in the Atlantic Division.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.