Ottawa Senators captain Erik Karlsson will return to the lineup on Saturday night when the team hosts the Carolina Hurricanes.

Karlsson took part at the Sens' morning skate and coach Guy Boucher confirmed the defenceman's return afterwards.

The Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch reports that the team will dress seven blueliners.

Karlsson, 27, has missed the last two games as he and his wife, Melinda, mourned the loss of their son. On Wednesday, the Karlssons took to social media to give thanks for the support they received and confirmed that their son, Axel, was stillborn.

In 66 games this season, Karlsson has eight goals and 48 assists.