Chicago Blackhawks forward Vinnie Hinostroza could be back in the lineup Saturday against the Vancouver Canucks, reports Mark Lazerus of the Chicago Sun Times.
Hinostroza, who left Tuesday’s game in Winnipeg late in the first period after suffering a concussion, was cleared Friday morning. Coach Joel Quenneville wanted him to “get his legs back” after being on bed rest the last two days, according to Tracey Myers of CSN Chicago. The 22-year-old has yet to record his first NHL point in nine games this season.
Vinnie Hinostroza spent the last two days in bed on doctor’s orders for the concussiom he suffered in Winnipeg. Feels better now.
— Mark Lazerus 📎 (@MarkLazerus) November 18, 2016
Hinostroza: “Anytime you’re dealing with your head, it’s a scary thing, so you want to be patient. But luckily it was a quick turnaround.”
— Mark Lazerus 📎 (@MarkLazerus) November 18, 2016
There’s nothing manly or admirable or macho about shrugging off a head injury. Good to see it being treated — and taken — seriously.
— Mark Lazerus 📎 (@MarkLazerus) November 18, 2016
Meanwhile, forward Tyler Motte (lower body) rejoined the team Friday in Calgary. Quenneville said there’s a “small chance” Motte could play Saturday in Vancouver on the second leg of the back-to-back. The 21-year-old rookie suffered the injury Nov. 6 against Dallas, and was expected to miss 2 to 3 weeks, which puts his timetable to return right on track.
There are no new reports about defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk rejoining the team. The 25-year-old blue liner is currently on injured reserve after leaving the Oct. 21 game in Columbus with an upper-body injury.
The Hawks wrap up the Canadian portion of their final Circus Trip on Monday in Edmonton.