Taylor Hall won't return to NHL game action this season, but he's making strides in his recovery from ACL surgery. Ahead of Chicago Blackhawks' practice on Friday, Hall took the ice and resumed skating in a non-contact capacity.
The Blackhawks acquired Hall, a former No. 1 overall pick himself, last summer in hopes that he'd be a mentor and linemate for Connor Bedard. Those plans went array in mid-November when Hall suffered a right knee injury that required season-ending surgery.
Before going on the shelf, Hall scored four points (two goals, two assists) in 10 games. His injury coincided with several other Blackhawks' ailments, making offense hard to come by for Chicago in a rebuilding season.
The Blackhawks are bound for the NHL Draft Lottery once again this season but must show improvement in the 2024-25 campaign. Getting Hall back in the mix will be a key factor in whether or not Chicago can play more competitive hockey next season.
While there's still a long road ahead, Hall returning to the ice on Friday is a positive step in the right direction.
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