Kane is able: Blackhawks' star expected to play Game 1 vs. Predators
Patrick Kane is back just in time for the playoffs.
Medical staff for the Chicago Blackhawks have cleared Kane to return to the lineup seven weeks after he suffered a broken clavicle.
The original timeline for Kane's injury suggested he would return in May, but recent reports suggested he could return ahead of schedule. The Blackhawks open their postseason on the road against the Nashville Predators on Wednesday and Kane now appears very likely to dress for the contest.
The Blackhawks released the following statement from head team physician Dr. Michael Terry on Monday:
Patrick Kane suffered a broken left clavicle on February 24, and underwent successful surgery to repair the fracture on February 25. Patrick has been working extremely diligently with his rehabilitation and has recently returned to full-contact practice without any difficulty. After discussions with Patrick and the team, and examining Patrick today, we collectively feel it is appropriate, with minimal risk, for him to return to full participation.
After practice on Tuesday, the club confirmed Kane is expected to be in the lineup for Game 1 of an opening round series Tuesday against the Nashville Predators.
So about that Kane character? "All systems go." - Coach Q #BecauseItsTheCup
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 14, 2015
Kane's presence in Chicago's lineup cannot be overstated. He has 91 points in 93 career playoff games and won the Conn Smythe Trophy when the Blackhawks captured the Stanley Cup in 2013.