Corey Crawford returns as Blackhawks shake up roster

Share

After missing three games with a lower-body injury, Corey Crawford will return between the pipes when the Blackhawks begin a three-game homestand Friday against the Buffalo Sabres.

It's a nice confidence boost for a Blackhawks team looking to snap a five-game losing streak.

"It's huge," Duncan Keith said. "Obviously he's been great all year and for the last several years for us. A big part of our success. We know that when he's in net there, he makes those big saves when we need them. I think it gives everybody more confidence knowing we've got a guy back there that can make those type of saves and keep us in it even when we're not at our best."

The Blackhawks also recalled Vinnie Hinostroza from the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs, the team announced Friday, after Tanner Kero cleared waivers.

Hinostroza was averaging nearly a point-per-game in Rockford, where he led the team with 22 points (nine goals, 13 assists) in 23 games, and had a plus-7 rating.

His offensive production in the AHL was too difficult to ignore, and the Blackhawks felt it was finally time to add him into the mix as they continue to search for some consistency up front.

"I just want to take it day by day, work hard to get back here," Hinostroza said. "Hard work's not over. I just want to come to the rink every day and still work hard and prove I belong here.

Hinostroza will certainly bring an element of speed to the four-line rotation, and maybe provide more balance.

It's unclear whose spot Hinostroza will take in the lineup because he didn't participate in morning skate, but expect him to play on the third line.

Alex DeBrincat was moved up to the top line with Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad while Nick Schmaltz was reunited with Artem Anisimov and Patrick Kane on the second line.

Contact Us