Skip navigation
Favorites
Sign up to follow your favorites on all your devices.
Sign up

Blackhawks could be without Anisimov against Caps

Artem Anisimov

Chicago Blackhawks center Artem Anisimov, of Russia, celebrates after scoring a goal against the Nashville Predators in the first period of an NHL hockey game, Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

AP

The streaking Chicago Blackhawks (10-3-1) could be minus a key player against the Washington Capitals (8-3-1) tomorrow at United Center.

Per NHL.com, center Artem Anisimov is questionable for Friday’s contest after being forced to leave last night’s win over the Blues with a lower-body injury.

Anisimov is the co-leader on the ‘Hawks with 17 points (8G, 9A), tied with Patrick Kane (5G, 12A).

“Obviously, [if he’s out], you’re missing a guy that has had a tremendous start for us in all areas of our team game,” said head coach Joel Quenneville. “So, we’re still hopeful that he could play.”

Anisimov did not practice today. If he can’t go against the Caps, Nick Schmaltz or Marcus Kruger could step up to center his line. Jonathan Toews would obviously center the other top line.

The Blackhawks have won seven straight, in large part because their goalie, Corey Crawford, has been excellent, and their veteran core has stepped up with big goal after big goal.

hawks

As you can see, the ‘Hawks have not received much production from the supporting forward cast. And don’t forget, Tyler Motte is out a couple of weeks with a lower-body injury.

The Caps, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 home loss to San Jose on Tuesday. Prior to that, they’d won five straight.