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'It's tough right now': Stephen Johns returns to Stars practice after headache-induced absence, is not ready to play

FRISCO -- Defenseman Stephen Johns returned to practice for the Stars on Wednesday, the first step in his return from post-traumatic headaches. Johns did not play in any preseason games and practiced once in the previous 16 days.

"The fact that he was out there and he got through the entire practice is a real good sign," Stars coach Jim Montgomery said.

Montgomery revealed Johns' diagnosis Tuesday afternoon, a day after the Stars traded for defenseman Connor Carrick and two days before Dallas hosts Arizona to open the regular season.

For Johns, the headaches not only impact his ability to play hockey, but also put a strain on his day-to-day life.