Defenseman Adam Foote (triceps) will accompany his teammates on their trip to Detroit and could be available for Sunday’s game against the Red Wings. Following Saturday’s practice at Family Sports Center, Foote proclaimed himself, “ready to go.”

“It’s been awhile,” said Foote, who also mentioned the level of frustration that comes with being sidelined. “There always is when you’re injured, whether your team is winning or going through a lull. That will never change.

“The last couple of games we played with a lot of energy and we deserved better. We didn’t get the two points, but we have to stick with that same game plan.”

The blueliner has not played since suffering the injury in the second period of a Jan. 4 game against the Minnesota Wild. He was placed on injured reserve on Jan. 6 (retroactive to Jan. 4) and has missed the Avalanche’s last 17 games.

Foote ranks as the second highest scoring defenseman in franchise history with 239 points (55g/184a) and holds the franchise record for career assists by a blueliner.

Stastny Update
Injured center Paul Stastny was on the ice for practice this morning as the Avs prepared for Detroit. It marked the second consecutive day that Stastny has taken part in at least a portion of practice, as he also participated in a few drills during Friday’s morning skate.

Stastny was wearing an orange non-contact jersey and did some stickhandling, passing and even took some shots. The third-year pro suffered a broken forearm on Dec. 23 against the Phoenix Coyotes and underwent surgery on Dec. 30.

Rayzor to Face Wings
Andrew Raycroft will be in goal Sunday against the defending Stanley Cup champions. Raycroft has faced the Red Wings once this season, posting 34 saves in a 3-2 Colorado victory on Dec. 15 in Detroit.

Another Milestone for Smyth
Sunday’s game will mark a milestone for Ryan Smyth, as the forward is scheduled to suit up in his 900th NHL regular season contest.

“I think Paul Stastny mentioned that to me yesterday or the day before,” said Smyth. “It’s an honor to play in this league. Playing that many games is pretty special. But it’s just another game and we need a win more than anything.”

Earlier this season, Smyth hit the 300-goal mark with a short-handed tally on Jan. 18 against the Calgary Flames. Colorado’s leading scorer this year with 44 points (18g/26a), Smyth has totaled 645 points (302g/343a) in 899 career games.

Tucker Excused From Practice
Darcy Tucker was excused from this morning’s practice for personal reasons. His status for Sunday’s game is uncertain.