:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/5131877/136346459.jpg)
Chicago Blackhawks forward Daniel Carcillo has not played since tearing an ACL on Jan. 2 against the Edmonton Oilers, but that hasn't deterred the team from signing him to a two-year contract extension reportedly worth a total of $1.65 million.
Related: No Satisfaction: Blackhawks 2 - Los Angeles 2, Kings Win In Stratego
Prior to the injury, Carcillo had two goals and nine assists to go with a +10 plus/minus rating in 28 games. Since he's been out, assistant GM Marc Bergevin says the Blackhawks have lacked his gritty presence, and that played into their decision to extend him.
"Since he’s been hurt we’ve been lacking that presence," Bergevin said. "He’s a great fit with our team. If you let him go you’re looking to replace a guy like that. So once you have him you may as well keep him. At the deadline you could hear playoff teams looking for those types of players. We felt we have him. We know what he’s about. We just feel comfortable having him back."
The Blackhawks return to action on Tuesday against St. Louis.
For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey. And for more news and notes from around the league, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.