Jan 25, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Chicago Blackhawks defensemen Isaak Phillips (41) follows the play against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place. Photo: Perry Nelson/Imagn Images

Blackhawks Recall Isaak Phillips; Alec Martinez Injury Questions Linger

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Jonnie Nonnie | Last updated Oct 29, 2024 1:14 PM ET

Amid a five-game road trip, the Chicago Blackhawks recalled defenseman Isaak Phillips from the AHL's Rockford IceHogs on Tuesday. This transaction marks Phillips' third call to the Blackhawks this season and produces questions about Alec Martinez's injury status.

Dealing with a right groin issue, Martinez has been on injured reserve since Oct. 17. Head coach Luke Richardson said last Tuesday that Martinez would join the Blackhawks' road trip, signaling that his return might be on the horizon.

However, the veteran defenseman didn't suit up Saturday against the Dallas Stars or Monday against the Colorado Avalanche and remains on injured reserve.

The Blackhawks are off Tuesday and Wednesday before continuing their road swing Thursday against the San Jose Sharks. Recalling Phillips at this juncture signals that Martinez may be in line to miss further action.

Guess who's back, back again

➡︎ https://t.co/DExpjaTkok pic.twitter.com/S52NPrpw21
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2024

In Martinez's stead, the Blackhawks have turned to rookie Nolan Allan on the blue line. He's held his own for the most part while veteran T.J. Brodie has been a bit underwhelming.

Phillips has shuttled between Rockford and Chicago to start the season, only seeing action in two AHL games. If he is to draw into an NHL contest soon, it'll likely be in place of Allan or Brodie, barring injuries elsewhere on the blue line.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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