Jimmy Hayes looks as if he will be the rookie forward to stick with Hawks

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Updated: February 13, 2012 9:24AM

In a few days, the Blackhawks will have to decide which rookies stay and which one is sent down the Kennedy Expressway en route to Rockford.

Rookie center Marcus Kruger is improving every day from his concussion, and although coach Joel Quenneville continues to glow about all the rookie forwards — Kruger, Jimmy Hayes, Andrew Shaw and Ben Smith — not all can stay.

Hayes appears to have the lead to stick with the Hawks. Hayes got a big chance with center Dave Bolland and right wing Marian Hossa on Tuesday against the Columbus Blue Jackets and played a new high of 16:04.

“I like his patience with the puck,” Quenneville said. “I like his vision with the puck. For a big guy, he’s seeing plays. I like the way he protects it.”

The Hawks need centers and Kruger succeeded on the second line. But there is no telling what type of a player he will be when he returns, which might happen this weekend.

The Hawks have the option of activating Kruger from injured reserve and sending him to Rockford to get his game in order. It might turn out to be the best option if Hayes, Shaw and Smith play well again Thursday against the Minnesota Wild at the United Center.

“It’s a big-time opportunity for me and you have to make the best of it and try to go with it,” Hayes said. “You can never get comfortable. It’s such a great league. I’m young and I don’t ever want to get complacent.”

The rookies’ strong play makes it easier for general manager Stan Bowman to part with other prospects in a trade.

“Consistency is the best measuring stick and they’re only giving us signs that they’re only going to get better,” Quenneville said. “They’re very deserving of staying.”

Slap shots

Quenneville said there’s a chance winger Daniel Carcillo (left knee) “may need surgery.” But the Hawks aren’t expected to formally announce their plans for him until after his seven-game suspension ends after Sunday’s game against the San Jose Sharks.

◆ Ray Emery will start in goal against the Wild.