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Another ‘Hawk banged up during World Cup exhibitions -- this time, it’s Kruger

Marcus Kruger

Chicago Blackhawks’ Marcus Kruger (16) works with teammates before an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals in Chicago, Tuesday, Oct.1, 2013. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

AP

Chicago Blackhawks fans were gritting their teeth yesterday upon learning that Marian Hossa needed x-rays after playing in Team Europe’s World Cup exhibition loss to Team North America.

Today, they’re gritting ‘em some more.

Versatile penalty killer Marcus Kruger, who signed a three-year, $9.25 million extension in March, suffered an upper-body injury during Sweden’s OT loss to Finland:

Kruger plays an important role in Chicago, one that could increase this season given Andrew Shaw was shipped off to Montreal.

And the good news for the ‘Hawks is that Kruger’s being held out as a “precaution,” suggesting the ailment isn’t severe. But that likely won’t settle down the angst over mounting injuries, which has been a prevalent storyline throughout the WC exhibition campaign.

Hossa, as mentioned, got banged up in Europe’s first game. Same went for the Czech Republic’s Vladimir Sobotka, who suffered an upper-body injury in a 4-3 loss to Russia.