Although he hasn't has practiced with the team these last few days, the veteran defenseman mentioned that he has been skating to keep his legs moving.
Jones has missed some games after injuring his right thumb in the third period of the team's 4-3 overtime loss against the Buffalo Sabres. He noted that he felt the pain but pushed through it during rest of the period.
"It didn't feel good," Jones said. "But it's one of those things where you have adrenaline going a little bit too and it's just one period."
Last week, Richardson thought Jones would still need another week or two to come back but since he is 'young and healthy guy,' he was able to heal faster. The second-year Blackhawk was expected to miss three to four weeks with the injury.
Since being out, Chicago has gone 2-6-2 in their last 10 games. After sitting out for those games, Jones stated how challenging it was not being able to help his teammates during those moments.
"Anytime you're not out there with your teammates helping them win or helping them out there, it sucks," Jones said. "Watching on TV, it's pretty boring. So, I'm happy to be at least traveling again."
Even though the team has missed his presence along the blue line, Richardson said it allowed others to be able to step up and take advantage of the opportunity.
"I think we've done a good job in different areas," Richardson said. "Unfortunately, we'd like to have a little more success in the win column. But I think we've battled pretty hard and guys that have had the opportunity to play more of have grown as a player. So, I think that's just going to help us as a hockey team."
If Jones does return, he will see less than his usual 24-plus minutes of ice time to help him adjust. He will also play with a splint on his right thumb for extra protection.
After Jones is cleared to play, the team hopes he'll be able to play more like his usual self and allow others to play in their regular roles.
"I think if we can get [Jones] back to his level as a number one [defenseman] in the league," Richardson said. "That's just going to make sure that everybody else [is] better because they're back [to] playing their roles."
