Soderberg practices with Blackhawks for first time

Carl Soderberg practiced with the Blackhawks at Fifth Third Arena Thursday, the first time he's been on the ice with the team since signing a one-year contract Dec. 26.

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound center had been dealing with issues regarding immigration papers and then was then forced to quarantine after he arrived in Chicago.

"Been skating for a while now with the guys who stayed home, but definitely nice to be a part of the team," Soderberg said.

Soderberg is unlikely to play in the Hawks' home opener against the Red Wings Friday, but it sounds like he could play in the rematch Sunday.

"I'm healthy," he said.

Soderberg scored a combined 56 goals the last three seasons for Arizona and Colorado. He figures to slot in on one of the Hawks' top two lines and could also contribute on the power play.

"Certainly happy to get him in the group and we think he can help us when he's ready," coach Jeremy Colliton said.

Seabrook has skated: Injured defenseman Brent Seabrook has been skating "off and on" but is "not near" ready to return, according to coach Jeremy Colliton.

Seabrook injured his lower back just before training camp began. The veteran scored 3 goals in 32 games then had three surgeries that kept him out the rest of last season.

Pirri on waivers: Brandon Pirri, who played in the Hawks' season opener at Tampa Bay then sat the next three games, was placed on waivers. The veteran forward was skating with several others after the main group practiced Thursday.

"We had a chance to play some young guys and now with (Carl) Soderberg back in the fold, it was necessary," coach Jeremy Colliton said. "We'll see what happens. But hopefully we can keep him with us."

If Pirri clears, he would likely be assigned to the AHL's Rockford IceHogs.

Slap shot: MacKenzie Entwistle and Reese Johnson were reassigned to the Hawks' taxi squad from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.