Datsyuk feeling better, could be back in Red Wings lineup by Game 4 of finals

Datsyuk getting closer, but not back yet for Wings

PITTSBURGH — Detroit Red Wings star Pavel Datsyuk is getting closer to rejoining the lineup for the defending champions.

Datsyuk has been sidelined five games by a foot injury and wasn’t ready to play Tuesday night against Pittsburgh in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup finals.

But Detroit coach Mike Babcock says he might be back for Game 4 on Thursday. Babcock says Datsyuk was optimistic after his skate Tuesday.

Detroit center Kris Draper was cleared to play a few days ago but hasn’t played in the finals. He could replace Mikael Samuelsson. Samuelsson didn’t skate Tuesday for unknown reasons and his status for Game 3 is not set.