He will make season debut tonight after missing four games because of groin injury.

By Ted Kulfan / The Detroit News

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Steve Yzerman is set to make his regular-season debut.

Yzerman, bothered by a groin injury since the middle of the exhibition season, is scheduled to be on the ice tonight when the Red Wings play the Los Angeles Kings.

"Just watching the games, you feel a little left out," Yzerman said. "I'm anxious to get back in."

Yzerman has missed the first four games of the regular season as the Wings have taken a precautionary stance against further aggravating the injury.

"We want him back for the year, which is different than one game," coach Mike Babcock said.

Babcock wanted to be sure Yzerman was completely healthy before getting him back in the lineup.

The injury frustrated Yzerman, who had skated pain-free during training camp and the exhibition season.

Yzerman also played well during the Canadian Olympic training camp in mid-August in Vancouver.

Yzerman is expected to skate on a line with Kirk Maltby and Kris Draper.

Babcock said he thinks it's an effective defensive line, but it can also surprise people on the other end.

"We think that line can generate offense," Babcock said.

Babcock said he likely won't play Yzerman on any special teams to begin with.

"Whatever role I have, I just want to be productive in," Yzerman said.

Yzerman has been impressed with what he's seen of the Wings.

"We have pretty good depth compared to other teams in the league," Yzerman said.

"We move the puck well, our team skates reasonably well. We should be pleased with where our team is at. We have to get better. But at this early stage of the season, I'm encouraged by the play of our team."