Red Wings seek sixth straight game with a point as Compher returns

Detroit heads into Thursday’s game at Vancouver with points in five consecutive games and J.T. Compher expected back in its lineup. Faceoff at Rogers Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET).

The Red Wings activated Compher from injured reserve Thursday, the club said. He has missed seven games with an undisclosed injury and has not played since Oct. 4. Coach Todd McLellan said the forward’s right-handed faceoffs, penalty killing and experience would help Detroit, while cautioning that he would need time to regain his rhythm.

Detroit enters at 3-3-3 after recovering from a three-goal deficit to earn a point in Tuesday’s 4-3 shootout loss at Seattle. Through nine games, the Red Wings have outscored opponents 10-4 in third periods, according to the club’s preview.

Vancouver is 2-8-1 and has lost eight straight, most recently 6-3 to Carolina on Tuesday. Its 4.64 goals allowed per game ranked last in the NHL as of Thursday morning, according to Detroit’s preview.

The Canucks expect Marco Rossi back after he missed two games with an illness. Coach Manny Malhotra said his return would help Vancouver put its forwards in their intended roles.

The teams will finish their two-game season series Nov. 25 in Detroit.