Blackhawks center Marcus Kruger is ready to go again. But fellow forward Daniel Carcillo will need a little more time before hes game ready.
Kruger is in, Carcillo is out and Brandon Pirri has been recalled as the Blackhawks host the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at the United Center. Kruger came on the ice a few minutes into todays morning skate but eventually joined the team, and took his usual spot at No. 2 center with Patrick Sharp and Marian Hossa.
Im feeling good, glad to be back out there and Im looking forward to tonight, said Kruger, who suffered a concussion when Penguins defenseman Deryk Engelland hit him high in the Blackhawks 3-2 loss to Pittsburgh last Tuesday. I felt a little shaky (immediately after) but I feel good now. Thats whats important.
Corey Crawford will start again tonight after his strong return against Montreal right before the break.
Pirri was recalled this afternoon with Carcillo still sidelined. Coach Joel Quenneville was very happy with how the young center played against Montreal on Wednesday night. He is a plus-2 in two games with the Blackhawks this season.
Meanwhile, Carcillo did skate this morning, but it was the first time in 10 days that he's been on the ice. Quenneville said they'll take some time to get Carcillo's conditioning back to speed before they put him back in a game.
Im not too good but once my lungs stop burning Ill feel better, Carcillo said after the morning skate. With an injury you just have to try your best to stay in shape and when you get an opportunity make the most of it. Obviously I want to be playing.