Patrick Kane Injury Update: Blackhawks Star Cleared to Return for NHL Playoffs

Chicago Blackhawks superstar Patrick Kane has been cleared to return for the 2015 NHL playoffs after missing significant time due to surgery for a fractured left clavicle.

The team's official website released a statement Monday from head team physician Dr. Michael Terry to confirm Kane's return to action:

"

Patrick Kane suffered a broken left clavicle on February 24, and underwent successful surgery to repair the fracture on February 25. Patrick has been working extremely diligently with his rehabilitation and has recently returned to full-contact practice without any difficulty. After discussions with Patrick and the team, and examining Patrick today, we collectively feel it is appropriate, with minimal risk, for him to return to full participation.

"

Mark Potash of the Chicago Sun-Times reported on Tuesday that Kane said he will play in Game 1 against the Nashville Predators. Chris Hine of the Chicago Tribune shared his comments: "That's the plan."

Bleacher Report's Dave Lozo weighed in on the news:

"

So when Patrick Kane re-injures his clavicle in a series he’s not needed to win, who do we blame? Doctors? Coaches? Society? Maybe … you???

— Dave Lozo (@DaveLozo) April 13, 2015"

Kane will now be available for Game 1 of Chicago's opening-round postseason series against Nashville. 

The 26-year-old right winger has won two Stanley Cup championships with Chicago since being chosen No. 1 overall in the 2007 NHL draft. His return to the lineup gives the Blackhawks a big boost. Despite missing 21 games during the season, Kane's 64 points were just two behind Jonathan Toews' 66 for the team lead.

A top-flight defense kept Chicago right in the thick of the playoff picture. After winning the Cup in 2013 and losing in the conference finals to eventual champion Los Angeles last year, these Blackhawks have the pieces to make another deep run.

It still remains to be seen just how fit Kane is in his return to the ice. Rust may be a factor as he acclimates to the heat of postseason competition. However, there's no doubt he helps the club's morale and can at least serve as a decoy until he gets comfortable.