The Chicago Blackhawks updated the injury statuses of three of their key defensemen, as they headed into the start of camp. Brent Seabrook is dealing with an abdominal problem, but it is a short-term issue right now, expected to keep him out the next week. One would have to think that his status for preseason games will be very hesitant, until he's 100%. Connor Murphy is now out eight weeks with a back injury and that will now cut a month out of his regular season, at the very least. The fringe defenseman was projected for 15 points this season, but that will be taken down to the uncertain nature of the injury. Gustav Forsling, who we already knew would miss some time to recovery from wrist surgery, is coming along, but still out indefinitely.
Murphy is the one of real note, as he'll open up a spot on the roster for the start of camp and that will be a good battle for some of the young players, like Henri Jokiharju, the team's 1st round pick last year.
After the update on the defensemen, the Blackhawks also updated the status of goaltender Corey Crawford and it may not be as positive as one may have hoped by now. Crawford is still suffering from concussion symptoms, but he feels like he is getting closer to returning, for whatever that's worth. Until he is cleared, he won't be at practice or in camp, let alone preseason games and there is no timetable for that to happen.
This now leaves Cam Ward as the current number one in Chicago, until further notice, and the race for the team's backup begins. For now, I've flipped the projections from Crawford to Ward and I'm not sure if I would be willing to take a flyer out on the number three guy, whoever that may be, at the draft.
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