Devastating News Hits the Blackhawks as Top Player Hits the IR With Groin Injury

The Blackhawks made the announcement this afternoon ahead of their home opener tonight. Unlike most injury announcements, they were vert specific, noting that Martinez is dealing with a right groin strain. In a corresponding move, the team recalled defenseman Isaak Phillips from the Rockford Icedogs of the American Hockey League

Martinez has appeared in all four of the Blackhawks games so far and has been a valuable addition to the team, logging over 21 minutes a night and already amassing 15 blocked shots. Unfortunately though, his health was a concern coming into this season considering his lengthy injury history. Martinez played in just 55 games last year and has hit the 70 game mark just four times in his 16-year career.

Luckily for the Blackhawks, Martinez is currently the most important player on the team who is out with an injury. This is in stark contrast to last season where they missed Taylor Hall and Connor Bedard for large chunks of the season, in addition to a plethora of other players who missed time. The team has already had some scares this year, including a hit on Connor Bedard in the season opener that had fans holding their breath. Luckily, the star center came out of that one with nothing more than a minor bump or bruise.

The Blackhawks are not expected to make the playoffs this year, but they should take another step forward after bottoming out two years ago. Connor Bedard should start to turn into a proper super star in the league, and he's already on pace for it, having five points through four games. New captain Nick Foligno should provide steady leadership on and off the ice to help the young team grow as player development remains a top priority for the team.

The Sharks meanwhile are still expected to be among the worst teams in the league. They should be a fairly easy matchup for Bedard and the Blackhawks as they celebrate their home opener, especially with Macklin Celebrini sidelined with an injury. Be sure to tune in tonight to see if the Hawks can give their fans a nice show for the first time this season.