Patrik Elias (upper body) skated on his own Friday, Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Elias (upper body) skated on his own Friday, Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Analysis:

Although it looks like Elias won't be ready to go for Saturday's game vs. the Panthers, a return next week seems to be a realistic possibility for the forward. He sustained the injury on New Year's Eve against the Penguins and has missed the previous four games for the Devils.