Scott Powers from The Athletic reported Thursday morning that Alec Martinez will miss the Chicago Blackhawks’ game that evening due to a lower-body injury. The team confirmed his absence by placing him on injured reserve and recalling Isaak Phillips from their AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.
In their announcement, Chicago specified that Martinez’s injury affects his right groin. His departure further weakens an already thin left side of the Blackhawks’ defense. The team signed Martinez to a one-year, $4 million contract in the off-season, seeking to bring in veteran experience and Stanley Cup success to strengthen their defense. So far this season, the Rochester Hills, Michigan native has recorded one assist in four games, averaging over 21 minutes of ice time per game.
Phillips, who has previously been with the Blackhawks, is getting another opportunity after being sent down to the AHL just a week ago. As a former fifth-round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, he may play alongside Connor Murphy on the team’s bottom pair; however, Powers reported that Nolan Allan is also set to make his second NHL appearance.
Last season, Phillips played on both the Chicago and Rockford teams, scoring four goals and totaling 14 points in 29 games with Rockford. Given the number of injuries affecting the Blackhawks’ blue line this season, Phillips may frequently be involved in similar roster moves. The team added sufficient depth in the off-season, allowing players like Phillips to build confidence in the minors.
