Updated

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) - The San Jose Sharks got some good news as they prepared for their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings when forward Ryane Clowe returned to the ice.

Clowe missed the final three games of the regular season with a lower-body injury before returning to practice Monday. Clowe says he felt good his first time back on the ice and should have no problem being ready for Thursday night's playoff opener.

Clowe played a key role for San Jose this season as a physical power forward and a locker room leader. He had 24 goals and 38 assists as the Sharks finished second in the Western Conference.

The Sharks made it to the Western Conference final a year ago and are looking to make it to the Stanley Cup this season for the first time in franchise history.