The Chicago Blackhawks are optimistic about the potential return of defenseman Alec Martinez and forward Craig Smith in time for the NHL Winter Classic. Both players participated in the team's optional morning skate prior to their game against the Dallas Stars. Martinez, who has been sidelined since December 13 with a neck injury, and Smith, out since December 20 due to a back injury, are currently listed as day-to-day according to interim coach Anders Sorensen.
Martinez, who has contributed one goal and three assists in 15 games this season, and Smith, who has six goals and four assists in 26 games, were both signed by the Blackhawks during the summer free agency period. Their potential return is crucial as the Blackhawks prepare to host the St. Louis Blues in the Winter Classic at Wrigley Field, a venue known for its baseball heritage as the home of the Chicago Cubs.
In the meantime, the Blackhawks have made some adjustments to their defensive lineup by recalling Wyatt Kaiser from their AHL affiliate in Rockford and assigning Kevin Korchinski back to the minor leagues. Korchinski, a promising 20-year-old defenseman selected seventh overall in the 2022 draft, had a productive stint with the Blackhawks last season, tallying five goals and ten assists in 76 games. Coach Sorensen noted Korchinski's development has been promising, and they are keen to ensure he continues progressing.
