Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford made a surprise appearance at the team’s practice Saturday, doing drills on the ice for the first time since suffering a concussion earlier this season.
Crawford, who suffered the concussion after hitting his head on the goal post during a Dec. 16 game against the San Jose Sharks, was only on the ice for around 20 minutes according to reporters, but did take shots and chatted with teammates while participating in several on-ice drills.
Despite the seeming progress that Crawford is making in his recovery from his injury, head coach Jeremy Colliton cautioned reporters and fans not to get too optimistic too quickly.
“(It was) positive that he was out there, but I’m not sure that it means a ton,” he said. “Hopefully he continues to feel better.”
Goaltender Cam Ward told the Chicago Sun-Times that Crawford “looks awesome,” but also sounded a cautious note when talking about the goaltender’s return.
“He’s the only one that can really tell you how he really feels,” he said. “But I think it’s definitely positive and encouraging to see him around the guys and see him upbeat and in a good mood.”
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The Blackhawks will next take the ice on Sunday morning when they play the Washington Capitals. Puck drop is slated for 11:30 a.m., and the game will air on NBC Chicago.
