Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Reese Johnson Returns to Blackhawks with Philipp Kurashev Injured

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Jonnie Nonnie | Last updated 3/25/23

Johnson will rejoin the Hawks lineup after a 16-game absence while Kurashev deals with an upper-body injury.

The Chicago Blackhawks will see a lineup change Saturday against the Minnesota Wild as two forwards are trending in opposite directions on the injury report. With Philipp Kurashev set to miss the Central Division matchup due to an upper-body injury , Reese Johnson will be back in the mix.

Kurashev exited in the first period of Thursday's game against the Washington Capitals after taking a hit from Tom Wilson. The Swiss forward was "pretty sore" after the game, and the Blackhawks are still evaluating him — potentially for a concussion.

With Kurashev sidelined, Johnson will suit up for the first time since Feb. 19. The 24-year-old has been on injured reserve since due to a concussion. Additionally, an illness kept him from traveling with the Blackhawks to begin their recent five-game road trip.

In 46 games this season, Johnson has six points (four goals, two assists) while averaging 10:30 of ice time.

The Chicago Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild are set for an early afternoon matchup on Saturday. Puck drop from Xcel Energy Center is at 4 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago.

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

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