The Chicago Blackhawks are being cautious with star center Jonathan Toews, who will miss his ninth straight game with a concussion when the 'Hawks host the New York Rangers on Friday night at the United Center. With good reason: after seeing what Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby has had to endure with concussion issues of his own, Chicago knows it can't risk its captain's future for immediate pay-off.

There was a bit of encouraging news on Toews' injury today: the Chicago star skated prior to practice on Thursday. Toews has only been participating in off-ice workouts for the last week or so.

According to intrepid Sun-Times reporter Adam Jahns, there remains no timetable for Toews' return.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more news as this story develops, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Blackhawks, be sure to visit Second City Hockey. And for more news and notes from around the league, visit SB Nation's NHL news hub.