Blackhawks Injury Update: Nikita Zaitsev to IR, Louis Crevier Recalled

The Chicago Blackhawks are dealing with yet another injury. On Wednesday, the team placed defenseman Nikita Zaitsev on injured reserve with a right knee injury and recalled Louis Crevier from the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL.

Zaitsev suffered the injury in Tuesday's game against the San Jose Sharks. The veteran blueliner logged one hit and one block in 8:46 of ice time before exiting early. On the season, Zaitsev has seven points (two goals, five assists) in 26 games.

With Zaitsev on the shelf, Crevier returns to the Blackhawks. In his first NHL stint, the towering defender had three assists in 13 games. Crevier has five assists in 18 games with the IceHogs this season.

Chicago Blackhawks Injury Report: Jan. 17, 2024

Nikita Zaitsev becomes the seventh Blackhawks player to land on IR, joining Andreas Athanasiou (groin), Anthony Beauvillier (left wrist), Connor Bedard (fractured jaw), Nick Foligno (fractured left finger), Taylor Hall (right knee, out for season), and Tyler Johnson (right foot). Additionally, Connor Murphy (lower body) is day-to-day.

What's On Tap Next?

The Blackhawks are back in action Thursday when they visit the Buffalo Sabres. Puck drop is at 6 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago.