Hawks’ Daniel Carcillo sits out for sixth game in row
By Adam L. Jahns ajahns@suntimes.com December 28, 2011 7:52PM
Hawks winger Daniel Carcillo chases a loose puck in the first period of the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 loss to the visiting Phoenix Coyotes November 29, 2011 at the United Center. | Tom Cruze~Sun-Times
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Updated: January 30, 2012 10:36AM
Even though some demanding practices left him winded, Blackhawks tough guy Daniel Carcillo thought he was ready to return to the lineup for the game Wednesday against the Los Angeles Kings.
‘‘Yeah, for sure,’’ he said.
But the Hawks opted to take a cautious approach with Carcillo, who is thought to have suffered a head
injury Dec. 14 against the Minnesota Wild. Coach Joel
Quenneville said he wants Carcillo to get a couple of more practices in before he comes off injured reserve.
‘‘You see him on the ice; you see him every day, conditioning-wise,’’ said Quenne-
ville, who said he will lean on the Hawks’ medical staff and trainers to determine Car-
cillo’s status. ‘‘In his case, he’s a physical player. We want to make sure that all systems are go.
‘‘He didn’t skate prior to the Christmas break, and we had four days off there. He’s only been on the ice three days here. A couple of more days could be best for him.’’
The Hawks also will be patient with center Marcus Kruger, who saw his concussion symptoms return after
a physical game Monday against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Rookie center Brandon Pirri remained with the Hawks with Kruger out and continued to play with wingers Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp on the second line.
Kruger didn’t practice Tuesday or take part in the Hawks’ morning skate Wednesday.
‘‘[Kruger is] close,’’
Quenneville said. ‘‘He was feeling all right [Wednesday].’’
While Kruger remains uncertain to play Friday against the Detroit Red Wings, Quenneville said he’s targeting that game for Carcillo’s return. Carcillo missed his sixth consecutive game Wednesday.
‘‘The team is playing well; the team is winning,’’ Car-
cillo said. ‘‘I just have to work hard, get back in shape and just wait until they tell me.’’
