For the first time in nearly five months, Paul Martin practiced with the Devils today.

Martin will not play tomorrow night against the Bruins, but is expected to return Saturday for the Devils matchup with the Blues.

“It’s a day ahead of schedule,” Martin said. “Tomorrow I’ll see the doctor and hopefully practice with the guys this week. This weekend is what we’ll be shooting for.”

The injury has kept the Devils top defenseman out of the lineup since Oct. 24. After not healing correctly, Martin required December surgery that included re-breaking the bone, inserting screws and a graft. A 4-6 week projection turned into nearly five months.

Martin took a few soft slapshots, used his left hand in some body work, and looked like someone who hasn’t played in a while at today’s practice.