The Chicago Blackhawks are returning a pair of forwards from COVID Protocol. Both Brandon Hagel and Sam Lafferty are back with the team after entering the protocol on Jan. 6.
The Blackhawks also recalled Josiah Slavin and placed him on the taxi squad.
Hagel has been a key contributor for the Hawks, ranking fourth on the team in scoring with 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 30 games this season. The rugged forward said he was asymptomatic after contracting COVID-19 and he’s ready to return to the lineup when the coaches decide.
Lafferty is still looking to make his Blackhawks debut. The team acquired him from the Pittsburgh Penguins on Jan. 5 and he entered COVID Protocol the next day. Lafferty had two assists in 10 games for Pittsburgh this season before the trade. In 94 career NHL games, he has 21 points (six goals, 15 assists).
The Blackhawks host the Montreal Canadiens tonight. It’s unclear if Brandon Hagel or Sam Lafferty will draw in, however. Interim head coach Derek King said the Hawks’ lineup is still to be determined.
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