* Itching to play: Defenseman Frank Grzeszczak missed his third straight game with a disc problem in his back. He is unclear about the severity of the injury. He will speak with doctors on Monday. Yet, he plans to play this week. “I’m not staying out another week,” he said. “I can’t stand watching.”
The time off this past week has improved his condition, Grzeszczak said, although he still feels pain. He doesn’t plan to miss extended time this season, even if the injury persists. “If it’s something that could get worse,” Grzeszczak said, he will wait until the off-season for any potential procedures.
* Surprise, surprise: Left wing Michael Liambas expected to continue a four-game suspension Friday in London. But as the team bus headed to John Labatt Centre, Liambas learned he would play.
Club officials discovered he OHL levied only an automatic two-game suspension for Liambas’ first game misconduct last weekend in Oshawa. After a review, league officials didn’t extend his suspension for the second game misconduct. “I thought it was reasonable,” Liambas said of his punishment.
* Speaking of Liambas: He played only forward against London, even though the Otters didn’t have Grzeszczak, Josh Kidd (suspension) and Brian Shaw (suspension) on defense. “I’ll play wherever I can help the team,” he said before Saturday’s game against Mississauga St. Michael’s.
* Around the rink: Kidd rejoined the lineup Saturday after completing a two-game suspension. … Shaw completed his two-game suspension on Saturday. … The Otters scratched Grzeszczak, Shaw and right wing Nick Palmieri (ill). … The Majors scratched defensemen Matt McCready and Brett Flemming and centers Anthony Tapper and Matt Caria.

– Victor Fernandes