Early Return Possible For Blackhawks' Patrick Kane
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Mired in a recovery that's expected to last 12 weeks, Patrick Kane has kept busy on the ice.
Kane has skated with the Blackhawks this week while rehabbing his fractured left clavicle, which was repaired with surgery on February 25th. The 12-week mark stated by the team would bring Kane back for the Western Conference Final. However, it remains possible that the winger could return sooner.
"We'll see," said coach Joel Quenneville, smirking as he was pressed for an answer.
Kane's injury occurred in the second period of a 3-2 overtime win against the Florida Panthers on February 24th, in which he was pushed off balance to the boards with his left shoulder leading in.
Quenneville restated that the timetable hasn't changed for Kane, but wouldn't dismiss the potential of an early return. The estimated recovery time for a broken clavicle often maxes out at 12 weeks, meaning it's very possible for an earlier return.
However, the decision on Kane's return will be handled by team doctors, not Quenneville.
"It's just a matter of when he's going to get that green light," Quenneville said.
The Blackhawks host the Columbus Blue Jackets at United Center on Friday at 7:30. Corey Crawford will be in net for Chicago.
