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Blackhawks' Duncan Keith: Expects to be ready for regular-season opener

Keith (knee) told reporters Tuesday that he believes he'll be ready for the Blackhawks' Oct. 12 regular-season opener against the Blues, NHL.com's Brian Hedger reports.

Analysis:

Keith also told reporters that he will draw into his first preseason game of the year Tuesday evening in a matchup with the Red Wings. The two-time Norris Trophy winner has been bothered by his surgically repaired right knee while preparing for the upcoming season, a lingering ailment that ultimately forced him to bow out of the World Cup of Hockey, leaving his status for the Blackhawks' season opener in doubt. It appears those doubts are close to being laid to rest. If the 33-year-old blueliner manages to complete Tuesday's contest without suffering any sort of setback, the Hawks' training staff will likely feel far more comfortable granting Keith medical clearance ahead of Chicago's first game of the regular season. Keith's knee issue may be something he's forced to deal with for the rest of his career, but the Blackhawks are already making changes to accommodate that unfortunate prospect, including putting plans in place to more carefully manage his minutes during the upcoming campaign. Keith may no longer be capable of averaging over 25 minutes of ice time per game, but will still undoubtedly be one of the most efficient defenseman in the league while averaging at least 22 minutes of ice time per game in 2016-17.

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