Chicago Blackhawks' forward Adam Burish had surgery today to repair a torn ACL, which means he's out of commission for around 6 months.

The Hawks also trimmed the roster to 28, most notable players sent down were Kyle BEach and Shawn Lalonde, to their respective Junior teams.

Burish's injury has ramifications for the Hawks. While it's not as cataclysmic as the same injury might be to a Jonathan Toews or Duncan Keith, the facts are these:

Burish had a solid season and postseason, regularly giving the Hawks a boost of energy. He's also their best shot-blocking forward, and part of the first Penalty Kill unit. He also took up the role of instigator, drawing penalties with agitation, especially post-whistle.

Fortunately, the Hawks' depth at forward will come into play here. The pickup of a former Selke Trophy winner, John Madden, means the Hawks' kill should still be solid. Tomas Kopecky will probably see PK time as well.

The fourth line wing spot can be capably filled by Troy Brouwer or Jack Skille. Burish's injury probably cemented a spot for fellow University of Wisconsin Badger Skille. The Hawks are down to 16 forwards on the roster. The guess here is the Hawks go with 13, which means Danny Bois, Evan Brophey and Jake Dowell probably all go to Rockford later this week.

If Coach Qstache decides he wants to carry 14 forwards, Dowell probably gets to travel with the big club.

If an injury like this was to happen to a player like Burish, it's better it happens now. If he follows the timetable, he'll return to the Hawks for the last 5-10 games of the regular season, giving the team a fresh set of legs for the playoffs. A well-rested penalty killer could very well be a precious commodity once you progress beyond your 82nd game.

While we at HOCKEENIGHT have been fans of Burish, and continue to be fans, this isn't the guy who will bring the wheels to a grinding halt. While he's usually a guy who makes good on-ice decisions, and never loafs on a shift, he's still a fourth-line forward.

If that sounds harsh, well, the fact of the matter is you don't win Championships being warm and fuzzy.

We just hope he heals good and proper, and returns to the Hawks for the final push before the postseason.