The Chicago Blackhawks may receive a belated holiday gift with the potential returns of defenseman Alec Martinez and forward Craig Smith. The veteran duo participated in the team’s optional morning skate on Sunday, signaling they are nearing a comeback just in time for the highly-anticipated NHL Winter Classic.
Timely Reinforcements for Outdoor Spectacle
Martinez has been sidelined since December 13 with a neck injury, while Smith landed on injured reserve a week later due to a back issue. Their absences have tested the Blackhawks’ depth, but interim head coach Anders Sorensen expressed optimism about their status.
“They’re close,” Sorensen stated when asked about Martinez and Smith’s availability. The coach described both players as “day-to-day” as the team prepares for Tuesday’s Winter Classic against the St. Louis Blues.
Anders Sorensen, Blackhawks Interim Head Coach
The Blackhawks signed Martinez and Smith as free agents over the summer to bolster their roster with experienced talent. In limited action this season, Martinez has contributed a goal and three assists through 15 games, while Smith has found the back of the net six times to go along with four helpers in 26 appearances.
Defensive Shuffle Ahead of Dallas Tilt
In a corresponding move, the Blackhawks recalled defenseman Wyatt Kaiser from the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL and reassigned rookie blueliner Kevin Korchinski. The 20-year-old Korchinski, drafted seventh overall in 2022, impressed with five goals and 10 assists in 76 games last season but will continue his development with increased ice time in Rockford.
“If you look at his overall development, throughout the season, he’s taken big steps forward,” Sorensen said of Korchinski. “We saw flashes of that early when he was up here and we want to make sure he stays on that track.”
Anders Sorensen on Kevin Korchinski
Winter Wonderland at Wrigley
The NHL Winter Classic has become a marquee event on the league calendar, showcasing the sport’s roots with an outdoor game at an iconic venue. This year, the Blackhawks will host the Blues at the legendary Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs.
With the returns of Martinez and Smith looming, the Blackhawks hope to have their full complement of players available for this memorable occasion. As the team aims to build momentum in the second half of the season, a strong showing against their division rival would be a welcome start to the new year.
Key Takeaways:
- Alec Martinez and Craig Smith participated in morning skate, signaling potential returns from injury
- The duo could be available for the upcoming Winter Classic outdoor game against the St. Louis Blues
- Chicago made roster moves, recalling Wyatt Kaiser and assigning Kevin Korchinski to AHL Rockford
- The Blackhawks look to make a statement in the signature NHL event at the iconic Wrigley Field
As the anticipation builds for the Winter Classic, the Blackhawks eagerly await definitive word on the status of Martinez and Smith. Their presence would provide a significant boost as the team looks to rise to the occasion in one of the most unique and celebrated games of the NHL season.
