Matt Greene to return to the Kings lineup tonight

Barring any unusual developments, Kings defenseman Matt Greene is expected to return to the lineup Thursday against Columbus.

Greene, who had back surgery in January to repair a herniated disc, has been out of action since the season opener against Chicago on Jan. 19.

Asked if he was good to go, Greene nodded and said yes after Thursday’s morning skate in El Segundo.

“It’s going to be good to get out there. I’m just more interested to see how I’m going to feel out there,” he said. “Not nervous or anything like that.”

The Kings activated Greene from the injured-reserve list Thursday. It has not even been a week since he was cleared for contact.

His steady, straightforward game, however, lends itself to a quick return, and if all goes well, he could play in the final five games of the regular season, or four of the last five.

Coach Darryl Sutter, who was not available for comment Thursday morning, had earlier said that he hoped Greene could play at least three or four games before the playoffs.

Greene talked about being paired with rookie defenseman Jake Muzzin.

“Hopefully, we’ll be good, or else we’re going to be in trouble,” he said Greene.

Said Muzzin: “We all know what Greener brings to the team. He’s a big physical guy. He keeps it simple, and I’m looking forward to playing with him.”

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