Chicago Blackhawks‘ 3rd year center Phillip Danault(24) underwent hip surgery over the summer that caused him to miss training camp and the early part of 2015/2016.
It was a bit daunting for him to undergo the procedure as he heads into the final year of his entry level deal and is set to become a restricted free agent at the conclusion of the current campaign.
Cleared to return to action a little early he was reassigned to affiliate Rockford IceHogs at the beginning of December.
He appeared in 6 AHL games scoring a goal and an assist when he was recalled as the injury bug bit the parent club.
In his second game he would notch his first point, an assist and then a week later got another one and went on a three-game point streak before putting the puck in the back of the net for his first NHL goal, which turned out to be the game-winner.
The 22-year old is seeing a good deal of time on ice full strength and is being utilized in short-handed situations through his 12 appearances thus far.
The former 1st round draft pick may just be playing his way into a permanent roster spot.