Stalock left the game early on Nov. 1 against the New York Islanders after taking a knee to the head by forward Casey Cizikas. Following the game, the Blackhawks placed Stalock on injured reserve following the team's 3-1 loss.
One of the challenges that he is currently working through is facing tough shots once again. Like most injuries, finding that comfort and reaction level is something he wants to overcome before returning to the ice full-time.
"I'm just getting comfortable seeing a shot again," Stalock said. "You want to be able to react and feel comfortable on the pucks coming in at a high rate of speed. You don't want to be pulling back on a puck and not expecting it to hit you in the head. But you're going get hit again and I think it's getting over that just with any injury."
He also stated the frustration he felt during the process and some of the mental challenges that come along with an injury like a concussion. After working with the training staff this past week, he hopes he can return to his usual self.
Head coach Luke Richardson also noticed his progression while working with the training staff after going through the unexpected setbacks.
"He's doing better," Richardson said. "I think he's making some progression. So last week, they kind of just adjusted what they wanted to do, and it seemed to work well with him."
With Stalock out, this allowed Arvid Soderblom to return to the Blackhawks and showcase some of his skillsets. So far this season, the rookie goaltender played in 12 games (10 starts) posting a 2-7-2 with a 3.19 GAA and .906 save percentage.
For Stalock, he has witness the confidence that has grown for not only Soderblom but the team knowing that he'll make strong saves in the net.
"He's been great," Stalock said. "Every game he gives you a chance to win and that's all you can ask for. I think the guys get confident knowing that he's going to make that initial save."
As for Richardson, he feels that Soderblom has handled the pressure well between the pipes and sees maturity and skillsets that most young goaltenders don't have yet.
"I think he's handled really well," Richardson said. "He seems very calm and in control. There's a lot of things that young goalies at his age aren't as up to date with that he is."
