Hawks vs. Florida game called off
The NHL decided to postpone games for Florida, Colorado and Calgary through the league's holiday break, which extends to Dec. 26. That means Tuesday's Blackhawks vs. Panthers game is canceled.
The Hawks previously had this week's game against Calgary canceled.
A decision on when the training facilities for the Panthers, Avs and Flames can reopen will be made by the league and the NHL Players Association in the coming days.
The Flames have now had six games called off, the Avs four and the Panthers three.
The Hawks' final two games before the holiday break are both against the Stars (at Dallas today and at the United Center Thursday).
For the most part, the Hawks have been fortunate when it comes to placing players in COVID protocol this season.
"We're on them about it with the hygiene stuff and staying away from crowds as much as you can," said interim coach Derek King. "I know it's tough, especially at home with your family and stuff is going on. On the road we've got to be a little extra cautious about it. Maybe we don't go out for those extra dinners ... and kind of stay in our own little bubble.
"I give our guys credit. They're doing a great job. ... Hopefully luck's with us and we stay out of trouble."
Khaira skates
Hawks forward Jujhar Khaira, who was knocked out by a check from the Rangers' Jacob Trouba Dec. 7 at the United Center, was able to get back on the ice Friday morning. Khaira remains in concussion protocol, and the time frame for his return is still unknown.
"He's feeling a lot better. We've just got to be very careful with him," said interim coach Derek King. "He's a great guy. It's just nice having him in the room, and the guys are swarming to him."
Slap shots:
Patrick Kane notched his 700th and 701st career assists during the Hawks' 5-4 OT win over Washington on Wednesday. He is the fifth active player to reach that mark, joining Joe Thornton (1,106), Sidney Crosby (852), Niklas Backstrom (723) and Ryan Getzlaf (722). ... Kirby Dach's first-period goal against Nashville on Friday was his fifth of the season but just second in the last 22 games. ... Jonathan Toews, who tied Friday's game against Nashville with a third-period tally, has 3 goals in the last four games. It's his best stretch since scoring 4 goals in four games from Jan. 11-18, 2020.