As if the Blackhawks needed anything else to go wrong, they’re now dealing with COVID-19 issues on the roster that will sideline their biggest star and others.
MEDICAL UPDATE: Forwards Ryan Carpenter and Patrick Kane and defenseman Erik Gustafsson will not practice today (Covid-19 Protocol).
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 23, 2021
Patrick Kane, Ryan Carpenter, and Erik Gustafsson all missed today’s practice and are in the COVID-19 protocol right now. In addition, the Blackhawks recalled Reese Johnson from Rockford this afternoon. Johnson scored a goal for the IceHogs in a 6-3 loss to the Iowa Wild on Friday night.
COVID-19 protocol-related absences can result from several factors, including an initial positive test that hasn’t been confirmed, symptomatic individuals, high-risk close contact, or confirmed positive tests. The playing statuses of all three are in question for tomorrow’s meeting with the Red Wings at this point. Per the NHL COVID-19 protocols, two consecutive negative tests are required before a player can return to action.
It’s important to note that the Chicago Blackhawks are 100 percent vaccinated.