Roster remains work in progress
While the Blackhawks set their roster for Friday's season opener against Florida, it's not expected to be finalized until they return from Europe.
At least for this weekend's game in Finland against the Panthers, Corey Crawford and Antti Niemi remain with the club, although multiple reports Wednesday claimed Crawford and defenseman Aaron Johnson had been placed on waivers.
That would appear to make Niemi the winner of the backup goalie competition.
Because the Hawks are one of the four teams opening the season in Europe they are allowed to keep more than the maximum 23 players until returning.
Winger Jack Skille was one of five forwards returned to Rockford of the American Hockey League. Sent down with Skille were Bryan Bickell, Evan Brophey, Jake Dowell and Ron Klimkhammer.
Winger Radek Smolenak, acquired last Friday on waivers from Tampa Bay, is one of the 13 forwards on the roster for Friday and Saturday.
The Hawks still have eight defenseman, including Johnson, who apparently was beaten out by Jordan Hendry.
Assuming Crawford and Johnson are either claimed or sent to Rockford, it would leave the Hawks with 21 players for the start of the North American portion of their schedule.
There's a good chance Johnson will go unclaimed because of the $600,000, one-way contract he got last summer when he was one of those restricted free agents who failed to receive qualifying contract offers.
A one-way deal means Johnson will earn $600,000 whether he plays in the NHL or AHL.
Radio changes: Friday's game against Florida can be heard on WIND 560-AM, starting at 11 a.m. Saturday's game against the Panthers will be broadcast on ESPN 1000-AM at 11 a.m.
There are conflicts with WGN airing Cubs games both days.
The games can be watched live on Comcast SportsNet.
Thinking big: ESPN.com's Barry Melrose has picked the Hawks to win the Stanley Cup.
Sports Illustrated, in its preview issue, has the Hawks reaching the Finals.
Tip-ins: The Hawks didn't practice Wednesday after arriving in Helsinki, Finland, from Switzerland. - Florida center Stephen Weiss didn't practice with the Panthers on Wednesday because of a groin problem but is expected to play Friday.