Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Reese Johnson Nearing Return to Blackhawks

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Jonnie Nonnie | Last updated 3/16/23

A concussion and an illness have kept Johnson out for nearly a month, but he's expected to be back with the Hawks soon.

Chicago Blackhawks forward Reese Johnson hasn't suited up in nearly a month due to multiple setbacks. A concussion landed him on injured reserve on Feb. 20, and he is now dealing with an illness. The latter ailment kept him from traveling with the Blackhawks to begin a five-game road trip that begins Thursday, but it shouldn't be too long until he's back in action.

Head coach Luke Richardson said Thursday that he expects Johnson to join the team on the road swing eventually. If that expectation becomes a reality, the rugged forward should be back within nine days.

Even before the Blackhawks parted ways with a handful of regular NHL players at the trade deadline, Johnson carved out a fairly steady role in the team's bottom six. In 46 games this season, the 24-year-old has six points (four goals, two assists) while averaging 10:30 of ice time.

When Reese Johnson finally returns to action, he will have several new faces to get acclimated with. Since he last appeared in a game on Feb. 19, four of Kyle Davidson's trade-deadline acquisitions have suited up for the Hawks.

The Chicago Blackhawks visit the Nashville Predators Thursday to begin the aforementioned road trip. Puck drop is at 7 PM CT and the game will air on ESPN+/Hulu.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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