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Steen returns for Blues on Tuesday

St Louis Blues v Pittsburgh Penguins

PITTSBURGH, PA - MARCH 23: Alexander Steen #20 of the St. Louis Blues skates against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the game at Consol Energy Center on March 23, 2014 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Justin K. Aller

After missing one week (three games) with an upper-body injury, Alexander Steen returns to the St. Louis Blues lineup as they take on the desperate Washington Capitals on Tuesday.

Steen, 30, leads the Blues with 33 goals and is tied for the most points this season with 66, prompting head coach Ken Hitchcock to provide NHL.com with a rather simple explanation for why he’s returning to the lineup.

“This was the player’s call and the trainer’s call,” Hitchcock said. “When they leaned over the boards and said, ‘I’m good to go,’ I think it’s my obligation considering he’s had an unbelievable year and he’s been our best player most nights. I’d be smart to put him in, so I’m pretty smart and putting him in.”

While the Capitals fight for their playoff lives, the Blues hope to fatten their lead for the top seed in the West (and the Central Division) while also hoping to catch the Boston Bruins for the Presidents’ Trophy. You can catch coverage of the game on NBCSN and via this live stream link tonight.

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins