HockeyFanLand

Jordan Eberle's recovery seems to be progressing very well. Marc Spector of Sportsnet.ca saw the youngster practicing this morning and thinks he could return very soon -- possibly as early as Thursday.

That would put Eberle well ahead of schedule. In fact, it would mean he only missed four games with the injury. It would also be a nice boost -- both on the ice and emotionally -- for an Edmonton Oilers squad that has struggled of late. They've dropped 12 of 15 to fall behind the pack in the Western Conference playoff race and need the playmaking ability that their phenomenal second-year forward provides.

It's also worth noting that Eberle might even find his way onto the All-Star roster if, in fact, he is healthy and ready to go. With Mikko Koivu and Jamie Benn most likely out for the festivities, at least two roster spots will be open. Eberle seemed like a lock to make it before he was hurt and, while players like Radim Vrbata of Phoenix and Scott Hartnell of Philadelphia deserve strong consideration as well, Edmonton's scoring leader will certainly garner a look. ESPN.com

The HockeyFanLand Insight

Jordan Eberle is one of my favorite hockey players on earth. I wear his jersey with pride! While it would be awesome to see him get an opportunity to play in his first All-Star game, not to mention the big boost to my fantasy rosters. I am always weary of a player coming back from injury so much sooner than originally anticipated. In my mind, it would be smart for Eberle to still sit the All-Star event out.

Eberle will have plenty more opportunities to enjoy the All-Star festivities when he is fully healthy and not just being rushed back from injury. The more time you have to get healthy, the better. The last thing Edmonton Oilers fans would want is a reoccurring injury to one of the games brightest young stars...