Amid a busy Friday surrounding the NHL trade deadline, the Chicago Blackhawks made a few transactions. The team activated Nikita Zaitsev from injured reserve and assigned Louis Crevier and Issak Phillips to the AHL Rockford IceHogs.
Zaitsev last played on Jan. 16 when he suffered a right knee injury in a game against the San Jose Sharks. Before going on the shelf, he posted seven points (two goals, five assists) in 26 games.
The veteran defenseman is nearing a return to action and could join the Blackhawks lineup Saturday against the Washington Capitals. Zaitsev skated on the third defensive pair with Jarred Tinordi during Friday's practice.
Players needed to be assigned to an AHL roster by Friday to be eligible for the Calder Cup Playoffs, hence Crevier's and Phillips' designations.
Crevier has three assists in 24 NHL games and five assists in 21 AHL games this season. Phillips has six assists in 33 games with the Blackhawks and three points (one goal, two assists) in 10 AHL games during the 2023-24 campaign.
The Blackhawks are back in action Saturday when they wrap up a three-game road trip against the Capitals. Puck drop is at 6 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago+.
More must-reads: