Morin might be needed more with Hawks

While the Blackhawks already have agreed to loan rookie winger Jeremy Morin to the U.S. team for the World Junior Championships that begin Dec. 26 in Buffalo, things could change depending on the injury situation in Chicago.

Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said Wednesday that would be a discussion for down the road.

“That's something that organizationally I don't think we've discussed it to that extent,” Quenneville said. “Right now we'll see how it all plays out.

“I would say most players would probably want to play in the NHL, especially if it's their initial opportunity. But at the same time you've got to look at how much is he playing and is it going to be better for him long term to get that once-in-a-lifetime chance.”

Actually it would be Morin's second appearance in the tournament. Morin starred for the Americans with 6 goals and 10 points in seven games when they won the gold medal last year.

The U.S. camp starts Dec. 17, and while Marian Hossa will be back from his lower-body injury by then, Patrick Kane will be sidelined until around Christmas with his sprained left ankle.

Morin will do whatever the Hawks think is best for him and the team.

“I'm really in the dark on the whole thing,” Morin said. “I'm just kind of playing it out and seeing where I am.”

Good timing:

Being recalled from Rockford with Jeremy Morin couldn't have worked out better for Rob Klinkhammer.

It turned out Klinkhammer was on his way to O'Hare Airport to pick up his parents for a visit to Rockford when he got the call Tuesday night saying he was being brought up.

So instead of watching their son play in the minors, the Klinkhammers got to see his NHL debut Wednesday.

“I've definitely been waiting for this,” said the 24-year-old Klinkhammer. “I think the long wait makes it worth it.”

Joel Quenneville was asked why Klinkhammer was brought up instead of former No. 1 draft pick Kyle Beach.

“It's a good question,” Quenneville said. “I think you could make an argument for a half-dozen guys. I don't want to break down every case, but basically at this time I think he earned it based on his performance and his play.

“His consistency might be something there as well. He can check and be responsible in that area.”

Burish likes Hawks:

Adam Burish has no doubt his former team eventually will get things turned around for the better.

“I think they'll be fine just with the talent they have,” Burish said. “I know they have some guys hurt, but it will come together for them. When you have that many new guys come in, it's tough.”

Injury report:

Marian Hossa was placed on injured reserve Wednesday retroactive to when he got hurt in practice Nov. 29. Joel Quenneville said it was purely a procedural move related to the salary cap.

Neither Hossa nor Fernando Pisani will make this weekend's road trip to San Jose and Colorado, but Quenneville said both players could be ready to return to the lineup next week.