"The Blue Jackets will not be maintaining the status quo when they host the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday in Nationwide Arena. They're hoping to get two principals back into the lineup following long-term injuries.

Center Jeff Carter, out since suffering a fracture right foot on Oct. 15, joined practice for the first 20 minutes or so. He said the foot felt OK, and that he plans to join a full practice on Tuesday. A return on Thursday has not been ruled out.

"I'm usually pretty quick to get back to speed," Carter said. "I have to get a decent practice in before I know how it feels. I'll probably know more (on Tuesday).""