Kulkov (lower body) is expected to receive clearance to play Friday against the Blue Jackets, George Richards of the Miami Herald reports.

EDGE Analysis

The news effectively rules out Kulikov for Thursday's tilt with the Predators, but certainly bodes well for his chances of returning to the lineup Friday. The Panthers will need to make a move to clear roster space, but expect to see Kulikov along the blueline Friday for the first time since Nov. 14 when he suffered the injury.