Trevor van Riemsdyk Will Be Out 3-4 Months

(CBS) The Blackhawks have released details on the extent of the injury that rookie defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk suffered Sunday, and it's unfortunate.

After taking a shot off his left knee against Dallas, the 23-year-old van Riemsdyk suffered a left patella fracture that will keep him out three to four months after he undergoes surgery Thursday, Blackhawks head team physician Dr. Michael Terry said.

"Trevor van Riemsdyk suffered a left patella fracture after taking a shot to the left knee in Sunday's game against Dallas," Terry said in a statement. "He will undergo surgical repair of the fracture tomorrow.

"We anticipate a full recovery in three to four months and look forward to his return."

The three-to-four-month recovery window would have a potential return for van Riemsdyk in late February to late March. The playoffs start in mid-April.

"These things happen," Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville said. "It's unfortunate. He got off to a good start for us. When he gets back, he can help us at that stage of the season. In the meantime, we'll give somebody else an opportunity."

van Riemsdyk was the surprise of Chicago's training camp, showing a consistency that earned him a roster spot. He had one assist and a plus/minus of zero in 18 games, averaging 13:32 of ice time.

In his place, the Blackhawks have called up 22-year-old defenseman Adam Clendening.

Chicago next plays Thursday at Calgary.