Marian Hossa (upper-body injury) skated for the first time in more than a week Thursday morning, taking the ice for 40 minutes before the Blackhawks’ full practice. Hawks coach Joel Quenneville hopes Hossa will be back at practice on Friday, and in uniform for Tuesday’s season-opener against the Washington Capitals.
“He felt good, it was good,” Quenneville said. “We’re shooting for Tuesday.”
Hossa won’t play in Saturday’s preseason finale against the Capitals, nor will Michal Handzus, who has yet to play in the preseason. But Andrew Shaw (lower body) will, making his preseason debut.
Quenneville isn’t concerned about the veteran Handzus — who’s been practicing with the Hawks all week —jumping right into game action after extended time off.
“I watched him every day skating, he looks good in practice,” Quenneville said. “We’re going to target Tuesday.”
Quenneville also said both defenseman Michael Kostka and center Brandon Pirri will play Saturday, as each has been limited in the preseason with injuries.
“Those two guys really haven’t played enough to really give them a fair assessment,” he said.
