CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks will be without center Jason Dickinson for the next few games due to a high ankle sprain, as announced by interim head coach Anders Sorensen on Thursday.

Dickinson, who sustained the injury during the team’s recent match, is set to undergo additional testing on Friday to evaluate the extent of the damage. Sorensen expressed a bit more optimism regarding Dickinson’s condition compared to his outlook after the team’s 4-3 overtime defeat against Edmonton on Wednesday night.

The injury occurred when Dickinson collided with Oilers forward Vasily Podkolzin early in the second period, resulting in his leg being pinned beneath him. Following the game, the versatile player was seen leaving the locker room wearing a boot on his lower left leg, underscoring the seriousness of the injury.

At 29 years old, Dickinson has managed to score seven goals and assist on nine others in 53 games this season, marking his third year with the Blackhawks. Last season, he had a career-high of 22 goals and has also proven to be a key player in the team’s penalty-killing efforts.

The Blackhawks, currently struggling, have seen their record fall to 4-12-4 over their last 20 games. They are set to face off against Nashville on Friday night as they continue to navigate a challenging season ahead.