Blackhawks' Ryan Hartman: Injury not as serious as expected

Hartman (lower-body) is considered day-to-day following medical evaluation, Mark Lazerus of the Chicago Sun Times reports.

Analysis:

It was initially thought that Hartman's injury would force him out for a lengthy period of time, but after being examined Saturday, the 22-year-old will apparently only need several days to return to the Blackhawks lineup. Blackhawks manager Joel Quenneville remarked that the team will not even call up another player to take Hartman's spot on the roster, a testament to the optimism of the right winger's health. Hartman could make his return in the Blackhawks' Oct. 21 matchup against the Blue Jackets.