Though it still seems highly unlikely that Manny Malhotra will be showing up on the bench for a game anytime this playoffs, his progression in practice has nonetheless been rapid and surprising. Practicing in full equipment today had a lot of people wondering how far along his recovery really is. From Elliott Pap at the Vancouver Sun:

Interest was renewed Tuesday when Malhotra wore full equipment in practice at UBC, which followed a week of skating in sweats. He has not been cleared for contact and participated in non-contact drills only.

“It’s just about having him around the team,” Vigneault explained. “He’s been a very important part of our leadership group. I want him around the team and it’s that simple. We’re not going to discuss his physical situation, his eye. All I can tell you is I want him around the team, and that’s it.”

Last week, Canucks GM Mike Gillis declared it was “extremely unlikely” Malhotra would suit up again this season. Then associate coach Rick Bowness said it would take “a complete miracle” for Malhotra to play in a game. Is this miracle happening?

“Don’t, don’t, don’t go there,” Vigneault snapped. “I just told you we’re not discussing that. Anything else?”