Blackhawks Injury Report: Laurent Brossoit's Absence Extends

Chicago Blackhawks goalie Laurent Brossoit hasn't seen the ice this season due to a knee injury, and his absence will continue into the new year. The veteran netminder underwent another procedure on his right knee and will be out for approximately six more weeks, according to Scott Powers of The Athletic.

When the Blackhawks signed Brossoit this past offseason, he was expected to serve as the team's primary backup goalie. A late-summer meniscus surgery caused Brossoit to miss training camp and the beginning of the season, but he began skating in late October and was expected to build toward game action. Those plans were put on hold when head coach Luke Richardson said Brossoit didn't have a return timeline on Nov. 9.

Given Friday's update, Chicago must continue to rely on Arvid Soderblom behind Petr Mrazek. Soderblom's continued usage will put the Blackhawks in a bit of a roster bind, however, as he's nearing 60 career NHL games played. Once he reaches that benchmark, the Blackhawks will have to place him on waivers if they want to send him to the AHL.

Kyle Davidson and Co. will have to cross that bridge when they get to it as the Blackhawks need goalie depth in the immediate future, and Soderblom's resurgence has made him worthy of the role.