Big update on big Dustin Byfuglien.

The Winnipeg Jets have been dealing with a number of injuries to some of their core players, but on New Year's Day the team received some good news.

In an official report from the Jets website, the team announced that veteran defenseman Dustin Byfuglien took a big step in his recovery on Monday, skating without a non-contact jersey for the first time since suffering a serious injury.

It was the first time Byfuglien could get some work in with his teammates since December 9th when he suffered the injury, and it sounds like it might not be very long before he joins the on the ice for a game again.

The Jets have not made an official announcement when he is expected to return, however head coach Paul Maurice appeared to indicate that it could be very soon indeed if Byfuglien feels like he is up to the challenge.

"I'm feeling good. I'm over sitting and watching," Byfuglien said.

"It's exciting to get back on the ice with the guys and start being a part of the team again."

Obviously Byfuglien is a huge part of what the Jets do on defense and he also adds a great deal of physicality to the team when he is healthy and in the line up. Considering the injuries the Jets are currently dealing with his return would be a huge help to the organization.