Martin Hanzal will make his long-awaited return to the Dallas Stars' lineup on Friday against the San Jose Sharks, according to Mark Stepneski of the team's website.

Hanzal last suited up on Feb. 21 when he suffered a season-ending back injury. He underwent spinal fusion surgery in March.

He signed a three-year, $14.25-million contract with the Stars in July 2017, and tallied 10 points in 38 games during his first season in Dallas. He spent the first 10 years of his career with the Arizona Coyotes but was dealt to the Minnesota Wild at the 2017 trade deadline.

The towering 6-foot-6 center was spotted on a line between Devin Shore and Jason Spezza during Thursday's practice, according to The Athletic's Sean Shapiro.

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