Jan. 17--After four days off, the Chicago Blackhawks were back in action for a key Central Division tilt with the Winnipeg Jets on Friday night at the United Center.
The Jets had previously visited the United Center twice this season and skated to victories in both games, allowing the Hawks one goal in the process.
"We don't want anybody coming in here thinking they can beat us three times in one season," Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said before the game.
In the nets
Corey Crawford made his second consecutive start in goal for the Hawks and was opposed by Michael Hutchinson for the Jets.
Roster report
Kris Versteeg (hand), Tim Erixson (healthy) and Joakim Nordstrom (healthy) were scratched for the Hawks. Sitting for the Jets were Adam Pardy, Paul Postma and TJ Galiardi.
Versteeg watch
The winger missed his sixth consecutive game with a left hand injury suffered Jan. 1 against the Capitals.
"He hasn't started skating yet," coach Joel Quenneville said. "Once he gets started skating, then we'll get a better idea how close he is to returning. But he's a ways away."
Versteeg was expected to miss about a month with the injury that required surgery.
"(It) might be in or around there," Quenneville said of that timetable.
Up next
Versus the Stars, 5 p.m., Sunday at the United Center.
