First Blackhawks practice under King features plenty of passing, movement

New Blackhawks coach Derek King put his team through a fast-paced, spirited practice Monday, less than 24 hours after notching his first NHL victory behind the bench against the Nashville Predators.

The 30-minute session opened with an up-and-down the ice passing drill and continued with some 2-on-2 rushes.

King even got involved near one of the sideboards by tapping pucks back and forth with different players.

"I just want to get us playing quick and everybody handling pucks ... and they were flying out there today," King said. "This is just what I like. It's like minor hockey - I hate kids standing around in corners shooting pucks against the boards or looking at their parents. ...

"Let's get moving. Let's get passing pucks."

Forwards Brandon Hagel (left shoulder) and MacKenzie Entwistle (left ankle) did not practice after suffering injuries against the Predators. King isn't sure how much time they will miss.

Defenseman Wyatt Kalynuk, who did practice, appears to be ready to make his season debut Tuesday when the Hawks host Pittsburgh. He suffered an ankle injury in training camp.

Forward Henrik Borgstrom may also return after coming out of COVID protocol.

As for how King celebrated his first victory? Mostly with a good night's sleep.

"I passed out," he said. "I had an ice cold drink after and then I passed right out. ... I was tired.

"A lot of emotions, but it's all good. It's one win. ... We could drop one, drop one and then all of a sudden you're asking me different questions. We're not smiling and then I'll keep my mask on.

"But, no, it was a great effort and the guys (were) just awesome."