According to Tracey Myers of CSN Chicago, Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa is unlikely to play on Monday against the Los Angeles Kings.
Head coach Joel Quenneville also gave a brief update on Patrick Sharp, whom he termed to probably be within 1-2 weeks of returning.
At this point in the season, there is zero point to rushing Hossa back. Yes, the team is fighting tooth and nail with the Anaheim Ducks for the top seed in the Western Conference, but they are all but guaranteed a playoff spot and a top-three seed due to their massive lead in the Central Division.
In addition, Hossa’s game is predicated on puck possession and being able to play strong with the puck, so if he is dealing with a shoulder injury, as is suspected by many covering the team, then a bum arm would definitely impair his ability to do so.
The Hawks’ depth will help them absorb any issues that Hossa continues to have, and with 18 games coming up over the final 33 days of the season, this team is going to need all hands on deck.
Here are a couple of other Hawks headlines for your enjoyment:
-Fansided had a neat feature on what happened on Friday's date in Blackhawks history. On March 22, 1982, Denis Savard broke Bobby Hull’s team record for most points by a player in a single season. [Blackhawk Up]
-Tab Bamford has some interesting tidbits on various players in the Blackhawks’ system, including Phillip Danault and Vince Hinostroza. [Committed Indians]
-Finally, Jeremy Morin is having an interesting time of things with the Rockford IceHogs. He’s having a very solid season, has been suspended for his role in a fracas with the Chicago Wolves, and has been unable to secure a callup from the Blackhawks. Reed Schreck has the story. [Rockford Register Star]
