It's been almost a week since Blackhawks star Marian Hossa was carted off the ice and hospitalized after taking viciously dirty hit in the head from Phoenix Coyotes agitator Raffi Torres.
Things are just starting to get better.
Hossa will miss his third consecutive game this series with a suspected concussion on Monday when the Hawks host the Coyotes in Game 6. But he did visit the United Center in the morning, and a source said he's feeling much better.
"It's good to see him," coach Joel Quenneville said. "I talked to him last night and seeing him here today. There's still no news to report, but I'm sure his teammates are glad to see him and him as well to see his teammates."
Torres was suspended 25 games for his illegal hit as the NHL determined that he violated three rules in the process and took into account his extensive history of suspensions and fines.
Hossa didn't have a point in the first three games of the series, but was a plus-3. He had an All-Star regular season, leading the Hawks with 77 points in 81 games.
We here in Pittsburgh wish Marion Hossa a speedy recovery. I saw the hit and replayed it over about 12 times. I could not believe my eyes. What a cheap, dirty shot at a totally defenseless player. Only 25 games for that. It was almost career ending. I spent about 4 years in Chicago and the people treated us great even though we were still Pens fans at heart. We are still ardent Pens fans but no one deserves a hit like that in professional hockey. Mr. Hossa, our familys best goes out to you and we would love to see you back on ice soon! Our best to you and the Blackhawks. We may wear Pens jerseys but I assure you we will stand and cheer for you when you visit the Consol Energy Center and thats just plain respect. Torres, We hope you understand what you did because we here in the Burg have no respect for you AT ALL! YOU DON'T BELONG IN THE NHL..
All the "Torres leaving his feet" aside, even if he didn't leave his feet, Hossa should've kept his head up. Anyone who's played hockey knows this.