The Chicago Blackhawks hit the ice on Thursday for their second full practice since the Olympic break. The focus?
Power-play entries. The team is experimenting with fresh strategies to carry the puck into the offensive zone, looking to sharpen their edge when they return to action next week.
In other Blackhawks updates, Ryan Donato was absent due to a family matter-his wife is expecting their second child soon. Meanwhile, Jason Dickinson left practice early, but fans can breathe easy; it was just a minor stomach issue.
Across the NHL, the Men's Olympic Hockey tournament in Milan is heating up with just four countries left in the hunt. However, Team Canada will be missing a key player as Sidney Crosby sits out due to a lower-body injury. On a brighter note, the USA Women's team clinched the Gold Medal in a thrilling victory over Canada, with Megan Keller scoring the game-winner in overtime.
Back to the Blackhawks, their power-play units are getting a makeover. The top unit is trying out a new double slingshot-style entry, while Matt Grzelcyk continues to lead the second unit. The team made some roster moves before the break, placing Wyatt Kaiser on injured reserve and recalling Kevin Korchinski and Sam Rinzel from the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs, bringing their defensemen count back to seven.
Connor Bedard is back at center, taking faceoffs for the first time since injuring his shoulder in December. He’s winning 47 percent of his draws, showing promising signs of a full recovery.
Elsewhere in the NHL, the Boston Bruins are contemplating a trade for right-handed defenseman Justin Faulk from the Blues. With the trade deadline approaching, this could be a strategic move for the Bruins.
As for the Olympic stage, the United States faces Slovakia with a shot at the Gold Medal on the line. It’s shaping up to be an exciting matchup, with both teams eager to make their mark.