2010 Blackhawks Offseason: Strong Theme Emerging

As we move past the 2010 NHL Draft and sprint into free agency in July, a clear theme is beginning to emerge for the defending Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks: big, strong, and fast. Just look at the skaters that have been added to the system and their sizes.

Via Trade

• Marty Reasoner, C – 6’1  200  33 yrs old
• Joey Crabb, W – 6’1 190  27
• Jeremy Morin, W – 6’1  190   19
• Jimmy Hayes, W – 6’5  210   21

Via Free Agency

• Mathis Olimb, C – 5’11  175   24
• Niklas Persson, F – 6’2  205   31

Via Draft

• Kevin Hayes, W – 6’2  205   18
• Ludwig Renfeldt, W – 6’3  196   18
• Justin Holl, D – 6’2  170   18
• Stephen Johns, D – 6’3   215   18
• Joakim Nordstrom, C – 6’1  180   18
• Rob Flick, C – 6’2  190   19
• Mirko Hoefflin, C – 5’11  155  18
• Nick Mattson, D – 6’1  190  18

Out of 14 players added to the organization, 12 are listed at 6’1 or bigger and most are at least 180 pounds. Considering Jimmy Hayes and Morin could be ready for time in Rockford after this year, both could be in Chicago some time in 2011-12. The Blackhawks are showing a fundamental philosophy trending towards two-way player with good size, which should only help the team continue to replace pieces around the core like Dustin Byfuglien and Ben Eager moving forward.