Van Riemsdyk (knee) is expected to resume skating next week, Eric Lear of Blackhawks TV reports.

Van Riemsdyk (knee) is expected to resume skating next week, Eric Lear of Blackhawks TV reports.

Analysis:

Van Riemsdyk has been out sidelined since November, when he required surgery to repair a fractured kneecap. It seems that van Riemsdyk is almost completely healed from the procedure, but because of his lengthy absence, he'll probably need several more weeks to get back to full speed. Expect the Blackhawks to send him out to AHL Rockford on a rehab assignment at some point in February, if he continues to progress as anticipated.