The Chicago Blackhawks are making a surprising lineup change for Friday's game against the Vegas Golden Knights. Forward Andreas Athanasiou, the speediest winger on the team, will be a healthy scratch as MacKenzie Entwistle draws into the lineup.
"We need more out of him," head coach Luke Richardson said of the decision regarding Athanasiou. "We need more of his speed and his dynamic.
"I really value him and think he's a great NHL player, but if you're not playing at the top of your game, then you're not you, so we want someone else to have an opportunity," he elaborated.
Athanasiou joined the Blackhawks last season and posted a respectable 40-point campaign. He then signed a two-year extension that carries a $4.25 million annual cap hit to remain in Chicago for the foreseeable future.
So far this season, Athanasiou has three points — all assists — in seven games. The 28-year-old began the season on the fourth line but moved up in the lineup as Taylor Hall's injury left a vacated top-six spot.
The Blackhawks face a tough test Friday as they visit an undefeated Vegas team that won the first head-to-head meeting 5-3 just under a week ago. One would think the Blackhawks need all the firepower they can get against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, but Richardson will elect for more physicality by subbing in Entwistle.
Puck drop between the Blackhawks and Golden Knights is at 5 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago.
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