Smith back in lineup, Crawford in goal

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Ben Smith returns to the lineup and Corey Crawford gets the start when the Chicago Blackhawks host the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight at the United Center.

The Blackhawks, who will be without Patrick Sharp (wrist) for the next 3-4 weeks, continue to dip into their Rockford forward pool. Smith is the latest call-up, but one with whom the Blackhawks are obviously familiar. The Blackhawks are still looking for their first victory in January (0-3-1), and will face a Columbus team that has a new interim coach in Todd Richards.

"We're in a stretch right now where we have to find a way to manufacture points, get to the end with the lead," coach Joel Quenneville said. "You're going to have stretches where there are bumps along the road and rectifying them is the challenge. Both teams will be desperate tonight. We want to make sure were going to be the hardest working team out there tonight."

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