March 01--The Chicago Blackhawks appear to be getting close to having Marian Hossa back in the lineup.
The veteran winger, who hasn't played since suffering an apparent left leg injury Feb. 13 against the Anaheim Ducks, won't travel with the Hawks to Detroit or Boston for games Wednesday and Thursday nights, respectively, but coach Joel Quenneville indicated Hossa could return for Sunday's game against the Red Wings at the United Center. Hossa skated Monday but not Tuesday.
"He's close," Quenneville said. "After this road trip we expect him to consider the next game or so."
Meanwhile, newly-acquired winger Dale Weise is still not with the Hawks while he waits for his visa to be approved. The veteran, who was acquired from the Montreal Canadiens on Friday, does not have a Green Card and needs to U.S. visa now that he will be paid by a team located in the United States.
Weise's equipment bag was packed and is scheduled to travel with the Hawks to Detroit for Wednesday's game against the Red Wings, but it isn't yet known if Weise will be in town to use it.
"Hopefully, (the visa) will be in there (Tuesday night) or (Wednesday)," Quenneville said. "If not, Plan C: Boston."
Duncan Keith did not practice Tuesday but Quenneville said the two-time Norris Trophy winner is fine.
