The Blackhawks had a few familiar faces back on the ice Friday.
Colin Blackwell, who was named the team’s Masterton nominee by the PHWA on Friday morning, was back as a full participant. Head coach Luke Richardson confirmed he will return to the lineup on Saturday against the Dallas Stars. Based on the lines at practice, he’ll take Taylor Raddysh‘s spot in the lineup.
Connor Murphy, who has missed more than two months because of a groin-related injury, was back a full participant as well. He spoke with the media for the first time since he left the lineup on Friday and said he hopes to get back into games before the end of the season. That probably won’t be this weekend, but he looked and felt good.
Reese Johnson, who is in concussion protocol, did not skate on Friday. He is still TBD for a return this season.
Nikita Zaitsev also practiced on Friday but skated on the fourth defensive pair with Murphy.