NOTE >>> Here's an updated story on Dave Bolland's injury situation. Click here.
Dave Bolland hasn't practiced in what seems like forever for the Blackhawks. He sat out Friday's morning skate before the Hawks played the New York Islanders, Thursday's practice at Johnny's IceHouse West and multiple ones before them too.
Bolland will still play against the Islanders and has played in the last seven games, but there are always injury concerns when it comes to the pesky center.
Does his absence at practice have anything to do with the foot injury that cost him three games in the middle of November?
"I don't think they are related at all, but at the same time I don't think the ailment, it's not changing much," coach Joel Quenneville said Friday at the United Center. "That's what we're dealing with right now, and I think he's handling it OK."
Bolland had a good start to the season, but his numbers -- seven goals, 10 points and a minus-6 rating in 21 games -- could be better. He's a crucial part of the Hawks and they could definitely benefit from a fully operational Bolland.
Bolland has two goals and an assist in the last seven games since returning to the lineup on Nov. 16 against the Canucks after missing three games with a foot injury that he suffered when he blocked a shot.
Are there concerns with him missing multiple practices?
"I don't think there is much we can do about that," Quenneville said. "[Defenseman Brent Seabrook] was on the ice [for a morning skate or practice since his leg injury] for the first time here [Friday]. He got hurt, but it's what you can deal with.
"But they're able to play, and we're not affecting the length of the injury or harming it any way."
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