Which Blackhawks’ star could return for the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs?

With the Stanley Cup Playoffs starting in August, it gives time for a few more Chicago Blackhawks’ players to return for their series against the Oilers.

Before we get started, I am not going to discount the severity of any players’ injury, as every hockey player in the NHL is tough and would rather be on the ice than nursing an injury at home. The Chicago Blackhawks saw their fair share of injuries in 2019-20, with multiple players having their regular-seasons cut short.

Yesterday, June 11th, 2020, Stan Bowman met with the media. Bowman spoke on the injuries many Blackhawks’ were facing, including Calvin de Haan (shoulder), Andrew Shaw (concussion), Brent Seabrook (hips and shoulder), and Zack Smith (back).

Two other players, Drake Caggiula (hand) and Adam Boqvist (concussion) missed the team’s last game against the Sharks but are cleared and good to go.

The most promising return is de Haan, as he’s been skating for a couple of weeks and is set on returning to the team on July 10th, 2020, when training camp starts back up. This is something that could truly help out the Blackhawks on defense, as their defensive play will either win them or lose them the series against the Oilers.

de Haan has taken flack this season due to his injury, but he can turn it all around during the playoffs if he comes out and plays well. Shoulder injuries are tough on players but he’s fresh and will come back healthy. I am excited to see what he can do.

“Obviously, Andrew Shaw, his injury is a little tougher to pinpoint with a concussion as far the healing time on that, so I don’t have an update much on him” – Stan Bowman

Andrew Shaw is still questionable, as it’s hard to pinpoint his return date with his concussion. I am hoping Shaw can return and help add depth to the playoff roster. Shaw is a player that could help the team big time, as he brings a physical presence the team has missed in his absence.

Brent Seabrook and Zack Smith are still recovering, with the team waiting to see how they recover before July 10th. Bowman stated that the team will know more about both players’ injuries as the weeks go on.