CHICAGO _ Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford skated and participated in some drills before practice Saturday for the first time since suffering a concussion on Dec. 16.
Does this mean his return to game action is on the horizon?
"Positive that he was out there but I'm not sure it means a ton," coach Jeremy Colliton said. "Hopefully, he continues to feel better."
Crawford joined goalies Collin Delia and Cam Ward on the ice about 30 minutes before the scheduled start of practice, then departed after doing a few drills and taking some light shots from goalie coach Jimmy Waite. Crawford did not address the media.
Crawford has not practiced since hitting the back of his head on a goal post last month when Sharks forward Evander Kane accidentally pushed Dylan Strome into Crawford.
"It's always encouraging to see him back in the locker room and get his gear on and go out on the ice," Ward said. "He looks awesome. He looks real smooth out there, but obviously he's the only one that can tell you how he really feels. But it's definitely positive and encouraging to see him around the guys and upbeat and in a good mood."
Colliton was not sure if Crawford had been skating while the Hawks were on their two-game trip against the Devils and Rangers or whether he will begin skating consistently.
"Eventually," Colliton said. "Whether that's tomorrow or a week from now, I don't know. It is a good sign."
