Blackhawks’ Reese Johnson Progressing Toward Return

The Chicago Blackhawks have dealt with a number of injuries this season. The past month-plus has featured several skaters on injured reserve, though a trio will return to the lineup tonight against the Oilers. Forward Reese Johnson is not one of them, but he is taking the next step in his recovery.

Interim head coach Derek King said Johnson will begin taking full contact in practice next week. The 23-year-old last played on Dec. 11, a game in which he suffered a broken clavicle. Prior to his injury, Reese Johnson posted four points (one goal, three assists) in 18 games.

The Blackhawks initially feared Johnson would miss the remainder of the 2021-22 season. But over the past month, he has taken the ice in a non-contact jersey to get some work in prior to Blackhawks’ practices.

On Jan. 21, King said Reese Johnson would likely be able to return toward the end of the season. There is no official timetable yet, but returning to practice next week seems in line with King’s prior comment.