The Chicago Blackhawks have placed veteran forward Craig Smith on injured reserve due to a recurring back injury. Smith has not played since January 8, when he logged around 10 minutes in a victory against Colorado. This injury marks another setback for the 35-year-old, who also missed time earlier in the season with a back issue. In his first season with the Blackhawks, Smith has contributed six goals and five assists over 30 games.
In response to the roster change, the Blackhawks have recalled Ethan Del Mastro from their AHL affiliate in Rockford, while sending defenseman Wyatt Kaiser back to the AHL. Del Mastro, a fourth-round pick in the 2021 draft, made his NHL debut last April.
Under interim coach Anders Sorensen, the Blackhawks have a record of 7-12-2. They are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday night. Additionally, the team has signed forward AJ Spellacy to a three-year contract that extends through the 2026-27 season, following a strong performance in training camp and a productive season in the OHL.
