Winger Bryan Bickell underwent wrist surgery Monday to repair a tendon that was severed by a skate in Game 2 of the Blackhawks’ series against the Vancouver Canucks.
A source said that the surgery was planned and that there was a small window that allowed Bickell to play through the injury before risking further damage.
Bickell had been a big reason why the Hawks were able to rally out of their 3-0 series hole and force Game 7 Tuesday night in Vancouver.
UPDATE: The Hawks officially announced that Bickell will be out six to eight weeks as he recovers from wrist surgery. Here is the official statement from team physician Michael Terry: “Bryan Bickell underwent surgery today with our hand surgeon, Dr. Weidrich, to repair a tendon lacerated during Game 2 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals. While the surgery was anticipated since the injury occurred, Bryan wanted to play as long as possible before time ran out to complete the procedure appropriately. We anticipate a full recovery in approximately six-to-eight weeks.”
Bickell sat out Game 3, but returned in Game 4 and became a force on Dave Bolland’s new checking line with winger Michael Frolik. Bickell had two goals and an assist in the last three games. He also landed a huge shoulder-to-head on defenseman Kevin Bieksa, who had the puck, in Game 6. (See the hit here.)
Tomas Kopecky (upper-body) has missed the last five games of the series, but did travel with the team to Vancouver.
XM Radio Home Ice was the first to report Bickell’s status.
