Smith returns to practice

With the Flames slipping out of playoff contention, goalie Mike Smith would prefer nothing more than to be back in net for Calgary’s next game, at Buffalo.

Knowing that’s not in the cards, Smith settled on accepting the next step in recovering from a lower body injury by practising with the Flames for the first time in nearly a month on Tuesday.

“It’s the worst feeling as a guy who wants to be in there every game and wants to help the team win,” Smith said after taking part in an optional practice a day before Calgary plays the Sabres.

“A piece of you feels like you’re letting the team down by sitting there and watching,” he added. “That’s the sucky part of the position and the sport. But that’s part of the deal. So you’ve got to deal with it.”

Though still experiencing some soreness, Smith was encouraged following the half-hour session while saying it’s premature to determine how much more time he’ll miss.

“I’d like to tell you that, but your guess is as good as mine. I think it’s just day by day,” he said. “I’m trying to improve every day, strengthen, get comfortable, and when I’m ready I’ll know.”

Smith has been out since being hurt in the final seconds of a 3-2 win at the New York Islanders on Feb. 11.

After spending much of the past week skating on his own, Smith at least felt healthy enough to travel from Calgary to rejoin the Flames, who are in the midst of a three-game road swing that closes at Ottawa on Thursday.