Chicago Blackhawks' defenseman Connor Murphy is currently dealing with back soreness. The veteran took a maintenance day Wednesday and did not practice Thursday or Friday due to the ailment. Head coach Luke Richardson said Murphy likely will not play in the team's preseason games on Saturday or Sunday.

Murphy suited up Tuesday for the Blackhawks' first preseason game. He played 16:41 and recorded two shots on goal, one hit, and two takeaways.

Richardson added that Connor Murphy's absence is mostly precautionary. After this weekend's games, the Chicago Blackhawks still have two more preseason contests.

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