Blackhawks' Connor Murphy Dealing With Injury

The Chicago Blackhawks are practicing today (Jan. 3), but one member of the defense group is not. Connor Murphy is sitting out with a groin injury as released by the team, so it remains to be seen whether he will suit up for the game against the Montreal Canadiens tonight. If the veteran is out, expect Wyatt Kaiser to draw into his spot.

The Blackhawks have lost five games in a row in regulation and allowed 27 goals against (at least four per game) over that span. As one of, if not the best defensively-minded d-man on the team, Chicago would be hurt even further without his presence.

Murphy ranks eighth in points on the team with 13, has the sixth-best +/- among players who have played at least 10 games, is third on the Blackhawks in average time on ice (20:33), leads the team in blocked shots (93), and is second on Chicago with 70 hits.

The Blackhawks need to at least stop the bleeding and head into the second half of the season on a better note. The talent is there, and even while they won't be making the trip to the playoffs, Murphy is one of the leaders who can help with any success to come heading into next season.

Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay updated on the latest news, game day coverage, player features, and more.

Recent Blackhawks News

Related: A New Report Suggests Jonathan Toews Has Interest From Teams

Related: Blackhawks' Next Step Taken in Turning the Corner to the Future