Minnesota Wild: Matt Hendricks back on penalty kill on return from injury

Matt Hendricks returned from his injury lay-off for the Minnesota Wild in their 6-2 victory over an injury-ravaged Vancouver Canucks.

The Minnesota Wild relied upon Matt Hendricks on his return to fulfil a certain roll on one of their penalty-kill units; Hendricks tallying 13:18 total ice-time, 3:38 of that spent killing penalties.

Now obviously this is a role that Hendricks is required to fulfil, but to jump straight back into the action and onto a penalty killing unit is a big ask. The playing style on the penalty-kill too can often lead to injuries; Hendricks would’ve been looking to avoid any shot-blocking that may affect his recovery.

In laying two hits and blocking a shot, Matt Hendricks showed the heart expected of him and also proved to the Minnesota Wild that despite a lay-off he hasn’t missed a beat in terms of his role.

One giveaway on the night isn’t ideal, but you generally make up for it when you’re also credited with a takeaway.

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Long-term, there may not be a spot in the line-up every single night for Hendricks, as he likely only slotted in versus the Canucks due to Zach Parise‘s illness.

He should be comfortable in knowing that even when he spends time away, that he can step right back in and get the job done. If he can do it from an injury lay-off, I’d say he can most certainly do it following a press-box stint.

His return should do a lot to keep the fourth-line on their toes; J.T. Brown and Eric Fehr both found their names on the score-sheet, with assists on Matt Dumba’s goal. They would’ve, in part, been spurred on by the fact that their roster spots may now be ones that they have competition for.

Given his age and his role as the reliable veteran, it’s good to see him back on the ice and doing well. Fact is, he’s unlikely to cause you any dramas even if he now sits for another week or two.

Matt Hendricks represents just the kind of professional that the Minnesota Wild need and having him back with the team is great for him and them.