The Chicago Blackhawks have avoided many of the pitfalls that can befall a team attempting to repeat as Stanley Cup champions. The 'Hawks have played well enough to sit atop the Western Conference standings going into Thursday's game in Winnipeg.
What is starting to loom as a potential sticking point for Chicago, however, is the health of its roster.
Bryan Bickell became the latest player to join the ranks of the injured after sliding into the net in the first period of Tuesday's 5-1 loss to Colorado. Bickell's left leg seems to be the issue after it struck the goalpost.
The big forward is questionable for Thursday. Whether he plays or not, Bickell's situation is indicative of the struggle every team can have keeping its players on the ice.
The 'Hawks are hoping to get Marian Hossa back from his own lower-body injury. Hossa has missed each of Chicago's last two games and also has a back that has been watched closely by the organization.
When Nikolai Khabibulin went down in Nashville last Saturday, he became the third Blackhawks player to be placed on long-term injured reserve. Michal Handzus and Michael Kostka ha ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Jon Fromi
Chicago Blackhawks: Injuries Could Prove to Be Toughest Hurdle On Road To Repeat
November 21st, 2013 by Jon Fromi Leave a reply »
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