Hurricanes' Bickell practicing, hopes to play this season

Bryan Bickell hopes to help the Carolina Hurricanes get into the playoffs.

The forward, who's been sidelined since late October following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, participated in his third full practice Wednesday. Afterwards, Bickell told reporters he feels normal and positive, and that being around the team has been helpful in terms of focusing on hockey and getting back into his normal routine following a tough stretch adjusting to his new reality.

"I knew something wasn't right and to pull myself up and get it fixed is the biggest thing," he said. "That was the past, we're taking it day by day right now and looking to get back in the lineup and helping this team win. Ideally, (we'll) get in the playoffs. That's our goal and my goal as well."

Bickell added he's in constant communication with doctors in terms of the treatment process and whether he's well enough to return to game action.

He does need to clear a few final hurdles in order to get full medical clearance, but he's making progress and feels mentally ready to play.

Bickell scored one goal in seven games for the Hurricanes earlier this season, and would bring valuable experience from his days in Chicago as Carolina tries to jump into a playoff spot.