Blackhawks Drop The Hammer, Beat Oilers For Fifth Straight Win
The Blackhawks headed into Edmonton riding a four-game win streak and feeling pretty good about their recent play. Patrick Kane and Connor McDavid were tied for second in the NHL with 76 points each entering the game. Chicago’s power play was rolling and their offense was clicking.
So of course the game would be low scoring, right?
The first period felt like two different games.
Erik Gustafsson scored a power play goal 1:55 into the game to give the Blackhawks a 1-0 lead.
So that was a nice way to start a game on a bitterly cold night in Edmonton.
The rest of the first period heavily favored the Oilers – and the penalty box. Chicago took four penalties in the final four minutes of the first period and Edmonton turned those into two goals, both from Leon Draisaitl while skating with the advantage.
After 20 minutes the momentum heavily favored the Oilers. The home team had a 16-9 shot advantage and was skating circles around the visiting Hawks.
Chicago looked to slow the game down in the second and was successful in staying out of the box – and keeping the Oilers off the scoreboard. The Blackhawks out-shot the Oilers 12-7 in the second period and the score remained 2-1 heading to the third.
And then the wheels came flying off for the Oilers.
Cam Talbot had played well over the first 40 minutes. That meant nothing in the third as a parade of Blackhawks took turns lighting the lamp.
John Hayden tied the game 3:50 into the third.
Dylan Strome scored what would hold up as the game-winning goal 93 seconds later.
When Patrick Kane scored 28 seconds later the Oilers were broken.
Ken Hitchcock challenged that there was goaltender interference on the play and failed. The goal stood, the Hawks had turned a one-goal deficit into a two-goal lead in 2:01 and the fans in Edmonton were not happy.
Talbot got the hook after Kane’s goal, finishing with four goals against while facing 27 shots.
Mikko Koskinen replaced Talbot and… the Blackhawks didn’t slow down.
Playing his first game back in Edmonton since the Oilers traded him, Drake Cagguila scored 47 seconds after Koskinen entered the game to make the score 5-2 in favor of the Hawks.
It’s worth noting that there was a cynical Bronx cheer for Cagguila when he scored. Brandon Manning, who the Hawks traded for Cagguila, was a healthy scratch for Edmonton on Tuesday night.
Dominik Kahun closed the books with a power play goal at 12:12 into the third.
A stunning five-goal third period blew the roof off the place and left the Oilers shaking their heads. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, have won five straight.
Let’s have some fun with point totals, shall we?
- Jonathan Toews: two assists, won 18 of 32 faceoffs
- Brandon Saad: two assists
- Patrick Kane: one goal, one assist
- Dominik Kahun: one goal, one assist
The only Hawks forward to not register a point in the game was David Kampf.
That’s right. Chris Kunitz had an assist.
Kane, Toews, Gustafsson and Connor Murphy led Chicago with four shots on goal each. Only two Hawks, Gustafsson and Brent Seabrook, had a point.
Cam Ward stopped 25 of 27 and played well. The Blackhawks allowed only four shots on net in the third period while scoring five goals.
Ward plays far better on the road than at home. Gustafsson weapon extrodinaire. Colliton great job fixing the power play; kudos to him. There were over 100 posts about Hayden during the Hawks’ break, he will be traded and be useful elsewhere (although he is the perfect fit for steady 4th liner in Chicago, Jr Shaw) The penalty killing is still atrocious, abysmal.
Keep the line moving.
There was pretty much a solid 60 minutes tonight. That penalty cluster toward the end of the first and the PK having to open the second could have been a killer. But the team held tough. Lots of kudos to hand out tonight for a lot of effort that paid off for the team.
There may well be moves made in the coming days, but this team has momentum and they seem to like playing right now, and playing alongside each other. Fun hockey to watch.
Go Blackhawks!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nice write-up, thanks Tab.
A balanced attack with depth scoring and PP goals? Oh my. This team has some life. I’m wondering how important it is that Brookbank is behind the bench. Heart and soul matter in this sport, and apparently Brookbank has those in spades. We’ll never know the answer but I’m keen to know what the vibe is behind the scenes since he stepped in.
A few weeks ago I asked what the difference was on the Hawks PP. The answers were mostly that the change in personnel are the difference. Namely Gustafsson and Strome were the main reasons for the improvement. While I agree that the personnel changes are welcome and help a lot, I still think there’s more to it than that. All 5 skaters move much more. The puck moves more as well. It’s a more dynamic attack. They’ve altered their gameplan and I’m still trying to figure out what exactly they’ve changed besides the skaters on the ice.
Props to Dahlstrom. He’s really fit in nicely and is making the most of his chance.
Good for him.
KAHUUUUUUUUUN!
Damn it, Kunitz!
If you think the Blackhawks played a solid, complete 60 minutes you didn’t watch the second 10 of the first period. The Hawks sent 4 players to the box and gave up 2 PPGs in the final 4 minutes of the first and the momentum was wearing an Oilers jersey.
But credit Colliton + the players for getting things right in the 2nd period and then blowing the doors off in the third.
Aye Carumba! It’s hard to not get excited with the way the Hawks are playing lately. I still don’t think they’re good enough to do anything in the playoffs but man this is fun.
Other than the burst of penalties in the 1st period I thought the Hawks pretty much carried the play the whole game. They played fast and the d-zone coverage was pretty good. PP scored 2 more and continues the nice roll they’ve been on. PK not so much but nobody’s perfect.
Go Hawks,
Did Kampf get hurt? I assume that’s why he didn’t play the last two periods. Strome has a wicked wrist shot – I wish he would shoot more. I really believe Strome has a ton of upside as he continues to physically mature. Although he had two penalties (the second one being a crap call) Dahlstrom continues to play with confidence. His stick is really good and he is getting much more comfortable jumping into the play.
Yep, Kampf got hurt – foot. Supposed to miss at least 1 game.
Travis – re: Brookbank I don’t know the specific answer, however I watched the Edmonton feed of the game and one of their announcers made a point of saying he was in the Hawk dressing room after the morning skate and he said the mood was very positive and the team was very confident. The announcer seemed a bit surprised to see the team so loose given their place in the standings.
I hope Kampf is ok, but to steal the phrase from others, “he’s just a guy”. He brings no offense to the table, and he’s nowhere near Kruger’s defensive center level when Kruger was in his heyday.
Maybe it was simply a coincidence, but the forward grouping played much better without him. Saad is relegated to playing with handcuffs when playing with him.
I could bark aboot the penalties in the first but the third but was so enjoyable (I live near-ish to Edmonton) that Im not going to bother and will put my critique pen in my shirt pocket.
Thank you Hawks. Now I don’t have to listen to Oiler fans yapping at me tomorrow. lol
I like what they did to my Cordoba.
The Hawks have 28 games left to play in the regular season. As of right now – 13 of those games are against teams in playoff position and 15 are against team not in playoff position. There’s a log of teams within a couple points of either getting in or falling out of playoff position, especially in the West. Still a long way to go.
Just please don’t do anything stupid Stan.
Hayden- nice goal, 10 mins ice time….Only Kunitz had less. Layed some good hits.
A lot of this is from playing with confidence. Great to see them keep the foot on the gas in the 3rd once they pulled even and got the lead.
Edmonton is a mess right now. Wow their two top guns are really great players but they fall apart at inopportune times, their goaltending was not good either.
I know this team isn’t going to win the Cup this year, but they have played pretty well for the better part of six weeks now. The Oilers on the other hand, look terrible.
A goal from every line could say, plus pp goal, didn’t let game get away at the end of 1st. Ward solid when he had to be, outplayed Oilers goalies. Saad with AA and Kane double shifting made a 3rd dangerous line, might work with somebody to split mins with Kane on right side. Even saw Gus playing good defense getting back to deny Mcdavid a scoring chance. Oilers just quit in 3rd though and Blackhawks took over.
Hey Tab, I saw the last 10 minutes of the first. Yeah the last 10 minutes of the first were kind of a shit show but the team’s competitiveness didn’t quit. They did well to not give up more than they did, so hence my 60 minutes comment. Compared to what we’ve seen during the slides that still equals a pretty solid effort throughout the game.
I’ve read all year about how the Hawks should play to the bottom to get a better draft position. But the fact is, sports teams are in the business of winning. I never thought the Hawks were losing on purpose. The team was just a mess. I knew the Hawks were not a cup contender, but they are not a bottom dweller either. There is too much talent on the team to be in last place. That said, I think the Hawks will end up 7-10 in the WC.
Winning is good for the Hawks. A culture of winning is important to any team and particularly its young players. I would be more disappointed to see the vets on the team not playing their best. So we pick 12 and 42 instead of 7 and 37. The team will be ok.
BTW, If the Hawks, by some outside chance, make the playoffs……I think they could give Calgary a run for their money. Not sure they could beat anybody else over a 7 game series.
Point of interest. If the Blackhawks win tomorrow in regulation and Blues lose inTampa, one point out of playoff spot. Favorable schedule negates the games on hand teams have too.
Edmonton must be sour, seeing Cagguila score as well as one of their former draft picks (Gustufsson) play well.
I thought Kahun had a real noticeable game…
KooKoo- was effective… if not solid…
wts- I think KooKoo/Dahlstrom -give SB lot’s of options to move A solid D man… for a real nice return that fits better ( Recent BIG fits- Strome and Caggs- I really think these 2 by themselves/or wrong teams/lines- are real average… BUT- you play them with Right guys (ex. Caggs- is a quick puck chaser- not afraid to take body- and get it to guys who can carry game)- they are both really nice assets!
Kookoo/63 – will allow SB to move one of them- or Forsling or dare I say Gus- if the RIGHT trade is there… so good for SB making some good deals lately- after a long string of BAD deals/contracts!!!
I think that Kampf might miss a break away when the goalie is pulled but some on this site under estimate his value to this team. One of the biggest surprises of the year.
Dahlstrom with the least minutes on D last night by a good 5 mins. and took two penalties though I thought one was ticky tack. Amazing though how NHL officiating makes sure the # of power plays are same or close by games end, 4 for Edm. 4 for Chicago.
I can see Forsling in for Dahlstrom vs. Vancouver, they seem to be rotating these young D. Not ideal but when you have seven on the roster its the way it is.
re: Kahun – he’s a nice player & I think there’s some upside to his potential still. But he’s not a guy who can skate w/ 19 & 88 every night. The Hawks needed someone else to skate top 6 minutes and so far Cagguila has been a good fit w/ Toews & Kane. Kahun has some nice versatility to his game and is a really nice bottom six piece.
I’ve been saying since the Hawks signed Davidson & Manning that both contracts were a wasted roster spot because Dahlstrom showed me enough last year that he should have had a lock on a roster spot out of camp. The org wasted the first 3 weeks of the regular season w/ him in Rockford – esp while Murphy was injured. No excuse for that. Bad talent evaluation
Tab i’ve said the same things about those signings too. I wonder now though if Bowman didn’t gauge the market right, knowing defencemen would bring a return.
The blueline is playing well now and they are playing better. Still seem to be struggling with man to man when speed and quick puck movement are employed by opposing teams with control in Hawks end, but coming.
Manning became Cagguila, Rutta for Koekkoek looking good, Davidson may bring low pick yet and the defense developing positively, Ward never meant to be no.1 but a veteran backup to solidify things and he has done just that. Kunitz may provide leadership in dressing but on the ice he has been a disappointment. Also even though i was originally disappointed at Schmaltz trade, saving what probably be an inflated caphit and bringing Strome who has provided the needed secondary scoring was a good move. Overall it is hard to say he didn’t do the right thing in the end.
That third period was fun to watch. The second line with Strome, DeBrincat and Kahun is playing well together. They had some nice possessions and all got a point on Stromes goal. I wonder how much better Strome and Kahun can be? I agree with Tab above that Kahun should end up on the third line, but he does not look out of place on the second line for the moment.
I am really excited to see the Hawks playing loose and winning games, but I have to temper that optimism with the knowledge that this is happening with Kane and Toews having career years. This team looks legit but it has a stink of fools gold to it as well. I am still not confident this group as constructed can win a playoff series against anyone. Not sure they win a game even. Maybe the experience of the playoffs could be good for these young players, but I am not sure I would trade a lottery pick for the experience of losing a playoff series. Let them get that experience next year.
I hope that Bowman stays the course and acts like a seller at the deadline. Players always play to win and fans want to believe that “anything can happen once you get in the playoffs…” But don’t let the hype of the first win streak greater than four games this year get to your head Stan. This team has a way to go yet…
This team looks so much different with some confidence. The changes to the lines, and the power play have worked wonders. Penalty kill, not so much, still a work in progress. They are maximizing what they have by putting Kane and Toews together, having a second line that can score. Cagguila has complemented the top line very well so far.
If we could get Edmonton to take Gus for their first, we could end up sneaking into the playoffs and still get a top 5, maybe top 3 pick in the draft.
In general I am against trading Gus because it is so hard to find offensive defensemen and the power play has rejuvinated our team. But if you want to retool on the fly and compete now also, that would be the kind of move that would be needed. Acquire a first of a non playoff team hoping to make a push, and have them miss the playoffs.
Colorado has to be jumping for joy with Ottawa running away at the bottom of the standings, as they own their first round pick from the Duchesne trade, which would be 4th at the very worst as of now.
Good comments Miroslav…..Even if we wouldn’t win much in the playoffs, I think getting to the playoffs and getting the young players that exposure is critical if you want to make a long run soon. Remember how we lost to Detroit in the conference finals before winning the Cup in 2010? It’s one of those things that you need to experience and learn how to adjust to the pressure and intensity and being scouted and game planned by the other team.
It’s a different experience….and as well as some of the young guys are coming along, many of them will disappear in the playoffs until they learn to adjust to it. It is as different as the regular season is to the preseason games.
Tab- agree on your comment… especially the Dahlstrom part… being/showing more than either UFA – SB signed…
I will add… I think KooKoo- is actually showing as much or more as Dahlstrom (albeit- small sample)… which once again- gives SB tons of options at TDL
Miroslav– strongly agree with your comment on SB/staying course- and being seller…
It could/should make the team MUCH better in near future- if He can find one or two more assets at TDL… Strome/Caggs- type fits + $$$ to spend + Picks!!!
Bowman has already said these things:
– They are in building mode and any moves made will be with an eye toward the future. May not be current assets for strictly draft choices. It may be current assets for players who can help next year and beyond.
– If they kept the exact same team for next year (which he said they won’t) the team would be better due to comfort with systems and development of players.
They already know who they want to move at the deadline if possible. A five game winning run isn’t going to change their overall plan.
Row A agree management are going to do what is best for the team, with perspective. Things seem to be headed in right direction with the way some key players developing. The goal Bowman stated was getting back to the playoffs, now that is within sight, see if they get there, glad to see posters saying playoff experience is key for development too . AA partial ntc comes off July 1st and there would total movement available then, may have a bearing on when he moves him, possibly.
ER, nice to see u on board the playoff wagon. Can the Hawks in the current state win a playoff series? Probably. 4 would be tough I get that. Dec/January schedule was brutal for the Hawks but Feb/March is a much kinder schedule. STL, DAL & MN have the brutal schedule Feb/March. STL next 3 @TBL, B2B @NAS/Home NAS. Could definitely see 3 loses or even 2. By Sunday, the Hawks could be in a solid position if they can beat VAN/DET. What could be needed?
A forward for the 3rd line with Anisimov and Saad. Drop Knauf down with Kruger and add one of Hayden, Perlini, Kunitz. Rolling 4 lines. It could be Sikura or a trade for a top 6 or top 9 depending on the cost. Maybe we get a top PK and live with Sikura with Saad/Anisimov.
The Def has definitely improved without manning/davidson, rutta and even Henri.
Murphy/Dahlstrom (bad end of 1st Period aside), Keith/Seabrook and Gus with Koko/Forsling have been vastly improved giving us a chance to win. Do we add a rental D to pair with Gus or can we live with Koko/Florsling/Henri? Murphy and Dahlstrom have been stellar shutdown pair.
Can I get some love for the Seabs haters on the nice pass to Kahun? Seabs will always be my guy, even to the end, after the STL serious with Backes. Dont ever wish ill will upon anyone, but Backes was being a Jack, so Seabs jacked him back. Oh the memories.
Go Hawks.
Oh Oh-the two numbers seen in the above picture-(again-gulp) 7 –2
Coincidence?
Hawks in TX, to say I’m “aboard the playoff wagon” is not accurate. The wagon I’m on is the one that still believes there is no point in making the playoffs because they aren’t good enough to win the Cup. But, that matters not one bit to what will play out through the rest of the season – the players will play to win, as they should, and they will win the games that they win and the Hawks will end up with whatever point total they end up with and it that places them in the playoffs then they will be in the playoffs. EbonyRaptor has nothing whatsoever to do with any of that except be a fan.
And that’s maybe where your confusion on some recent posts of mine have led you astray. As a fan of the Hawks, I get enjoyment from seeing them win – seeing them win on multiple levels. Seeing them win the Cup is the ultimate enjoyment of being a Hawks fan, but seeing them win a game or even individual battles within a game are also sources of enjoyment.
Without getting too deep into the psychology of being a fan, there is an element of inclusion, not unlike the allegiance to family, or community, our country, etc; and as such there is concern for more than just the moment – there is concern for the well being in the future. So while the enjoyment of winning in the “now” is great, there is also the looking to the future and doing what is necessary for future enjoyment/success. And that’s the wagon I’m on. Enjoy the “now” but don’t squander the future.
As long as we play hard and compete the rest of the year, I’m good with it. I would like us to become a team that other teams and their fans do not want to play. Right now we are becoming that. If we have a good run and end up being spoilers for a few teams that would be fun. Let’s just focus on improving, play it smart at the deadline (i.e. sell), and enjoy the upswing.
NOONAN96, ha – I didn’t notice that … cue the Twilight Zone music. Could it mean anything but “7” and “2” are out and “72” is in/back? ? ? ? ?
Kampf- In limited time due to Injury… did a solid job shadowing McJesus-imo
I like Kampf
Kubalik- will be a solid add… really like the clips /Stats I have seen on him… better than Kahun-imo… and I also like Kahun… Kahun- higher IQ… Kubalik- better size/shot
Is he eligible to Play here next year??? or is he tied to Euro-deals???
@HEREISMIKE, I just wanted to clarify that while I think getting playoff experience may be helpful for the young Hawks, I would prefer that this season the Hawks get a lottery/top five pick. Someone else mentioned this (maybe @ER or @Wraparound in another post…) that the worst possible scenario is the Hawks making a furious rush to make the playoffs only to fall just short and end up with a pick between 10-15.
For me it’s either a top 5 draft pick (best scenario,) with a playoff appearance being second. I don’t want them with a middling pick in this draft and not make the playoffs….
This team is closer to the team that didn’t make the playoffs (the 07-08 team) than the one that made it and lost to Detroit in the conference finals (08-09.)
Wall the Swiss league gas a transfer agreement so he would be eligible to play next year. They would option of taking him back before going to Ahl though.
I don’t want to see the future mortgaged either. Winning and playing hard, getting into playoffs, not tanking for a lottery pick are not mortgaging anything, thats natural growth that is essential.
I’m with JordyHawk- it started for me in 2008 when it was just fun to see them play hard and be competitive. Winning was a bonus- but you need to a) have the talent and b) be in every game … to have a shot at the playoffs, then the cup. We have a team of proud players who, from all accounts, don’t WANT to lose. But the talent level isn’t there, yet, where there is “potential” to win every night. Keep up the effort and SB, please make an effort to build a team that can win again before 19 & 88 get into a walker …
Wall agree on Kampf did an excellent job on 97, hope he is back soon.
Backes and his WAKEY WAKEY moment delivered by Seabrook won that series and changed the playoff officiating. East conference had Pitt and Philly? fighting every shift and doing everything but hockey plays on the ice. After Backes took his nap, the league stepped in and made hockey a priority again.
And don’t forget who filled in for Seabrook – Brookbank. He was fantastic.
Thank you Jeremy Colliton for keeping Seabrook and Keith together. It has calmed the defense a bunch. Please don’t change that pairing. Keith is a much better player with Seabrook behind him.
If Q had stayed, would Gus be the talk of the board as the major surprise of the year? Not a freaking chance. If Q was gone prior to the season, would Kunitz have been signed by Bowman? I definitely think not. Krueger got love because he earned it. Kunitz was the Q addition that came every year Q was coach – a gritty vet willing to cross the line when needed. Ward was a necessary signing in case the Crawford problem resurfaced. Did Q want Dahlstrom up early? I doubt he would have been given a chance, considering Joki was up too. The press box would have had at least one of them in it every night. There was a reason Roszival hung around our roster for too many years. It made Q comfortable, something kids will never do.
@Wall, I am really anxious to see Kubalik as well. Not sure how his game would translate to the NHL or how soon he would be ready to play in the NHL but want to see what he looks like in a Hawks uniform ASAP.
Maybe Kahun calls him up and tells him how great the Hawks are to play for so he signs his ELC… I thought Kahun had a clause in his contract that if he didn’t make the NHL squad, he would go back to Europe and not be sent to the AHL. Perhaps Kubalik has similar concerns about playing in the NHL and that is why he never signed with LA?
I went and took another look at the Kubalic highlights and got all pumped about him again. He seems to be a hybrid of Kampf’s size/strength and Kahun’s skills. Hopefully that proves to be the case on the ice next season.
For those that do not think this team is good enough. How did we win the last cup? Remeber Kuminsky, TVR, Timonen, and Rundblad played like 5-8 minutes each game and Oduya was not exactly playing the best DEF. How we beat Tampa with Seabs, Keith and Nik is beyond me, each of them played like 25+ minutes a game. Yet most people want to see these guys gone.
The Hawks are a top 10 team. They should have been in the playoffs last year if not for Crawford going down. This helped us get two top DEF guys and moved Hartman. Stan should be applauded for drafting solid first and second round picks. And stop with debbie downer by responding do I think Keith/Seabs and Murphy can be those 3 who play 25 minutes per game.
ER, I hope the Hawks win the Lord Stanley because they actually had a worse all around DEF the year they won it than the current Hawks team. One more Top 9 and/or Top 4 DEF could be the difference. Vermette came up huge during the playoffs. He sucked in the regular season, many times scratched.
so realistically what player shows up for the Blackhawks later in the season? in terms of in the minors
Misc. from Rockford: D Joni Tuulola is about a week away from returning. Brandon Davidson is out a bit longer, maybe 2-3 weeks, could affect his trade availability, maybe or maybe not. Do not know specifics of the injuries to these two.
D Blake Hillman took a hit last weekend and got a stinger. He’s ok and ready to play if not tonight then over the weekend. Ice Hogs starting a season long six game home stand tonight. They are three points out of a playoff spot.
Anyone else notice the stat mentioned on WGN last night …… against the Pacific this year the Blackhawks are 2 – 10 – 1 (with last night’s win). All other division records were near or above 0.500. There are some good teams in the Pacific for sure, but just a couple of wins more there would have the Blackhawks possibly in a WC spot.
PP, eh,
broken record, who would have thought that seeing the first 25 games. Strome.
Thx Row good to know
Big Indian heard that mentioned, 9 games left against Pacific. Only unfavorable part of remaining schedule. Two west swings A Wed., Sat. & Sun against all 3 Cal teams end of Feb. A Tue, Thu, & Sat against Ari, Ana & LA. Home against Van tomorrow and mid march as well as Ari, mid March. May play a big part in how season unfolds.
Sorry SJ not Ana on 2nd trip.
Hawks in TX, you’re entitled to have an opinion but you’re not entitled to revise history based on your opinion. Rather than get into a tit-for-tat argument on whether the 2014/15 Keith, Seabrook, Hjalmarsson, Oduya d-corps is inferior to the 2018/19 d-corps – I’ll let the historical record make the case.
The 2014/15 Stanley Cup winning Hawks gave up a total of 189 goals in the 82 regular season games. The 2018/19 Hawks have given up 9 more goals (198) in only 54 games. The Hawks Goals Against per Game in 2014/15 was 2.30. The Goals Against per Game in 2018/19 is 3.67.
The measure of a team is wins/losses and the greatest influence on wins/losses is goals scored and goals given up. To suggest the 2018/19 is as good or even better defensively as the 2014/15 team is absurd. That’s fact – not opinion.
Big Indian, the blackhawks are still in the WC/playoff hunt. The Flyers are talking playoffs and they are 7 points behind. The CBJ are in the playoffs right now and their fans are talking tanking.
Thanks Silent Spot for the comments. Enjoyed them. To Big Indians point: would you rather go through the Central WPG than NAS or CAL and SJS/VGK with our lack of success in the Pacific yet easier road.
Stats don’t lie- but they don’t tell the whole truth. One would need to factor in the difference in PP & PK capabilities 14/15 vs 18/19, as well as the forwards. Factor in blocked shots, goal-tending and speed, team defence then is not only about the “D-corps” ( and I’d suggest it WAS better in the past!) but rather the ability of the forwards to clear the puck ( not just ice it like Seabrook seems to do a lot!), to fast break/ stretch pass out of their own end, as well as out-muscle opposing players along the boards and take the puck, block shots, not screen our own goalie etc. Weak offensive players, and the lack of a consistent breakout capability, contribute to more total GA and GA per game. Until we get a full court defensive system firing on all cylinders, the goalies are going to continue letting in more goals with a higher than normal GAA.
Look, there’s a lot to like and be excited about the Hawks. I think the arrow is pointing up from where the team was in the first couple months of the season. And it’s not just the team as a whole that is giving cause for optimism, some of the mainstay players as well as the players added in the last couple months are play well if not even better than expected. So all that is great and fun to see.
But there is the reality that the Hawks have not done well against the teams they would face in the playoffs. If the Hawks make the playoffs it would be as a Wild Card team meaning they would play one of the Division leaders. Their opponent would almost certainly be one of Calgary, San Jose, Winnipeg or Nashville. The Hawks combined record against those 4 teams is 1-9 so for this season. In those 10 games they have given up 46 goals while scoring only 29. That’s reality.
Simple, Hawks need an NHL upgrade from Kruger, Kunitz, Hayden, Kahun, Sikura, and Kampf. These players are not the bottom six we need to become playoff contenders next season. It’s great to see Kane once again carry this teram on his shoulders.
If we trade AA and get some return along with all those bottone six players listed above, then the next GM can sign one of OPanarin, Stone or Skinner and maybe add a Dzingel as well. Myers in Winnipeg is too expensive but they have lots of prospects as well.
Draft Spencer Knight as a goalie for the future along with Kappo!
Hawks4life, you’re kind of making my point and the reason I didn’t want to get into a back and forth of comparing individual d-men between 2015 and 2019 or even by comparing the d-corps between the two years. The goals given up in 2019 are as much a team-wide stat as they were in 2015. What matters is team-wide success – not this d-corps versus that d-corps.
2.30 versus 3.67. Nibble around the edges of statistical nuance all you want – 2.30 versus 3.67.
Violently agree
Just shows how valuable a 2-way player Marion Hossa was and how much the Hawks miss him, or players like him
Hawk4life agree the 2way tenacity throughout the forward lines is definitely something this team doesn’t compare to cup teams with. Tx have say having a 3rd pair that can play more minutes doesn’t negate whats lost from the top 4, but this team is defintely on the way back.
@ Hull65
Will comment on this alternate reality quote in one response:
“Simple, Hawks need an NHL upgrade from Kruger, Kunitz, Hayden, Kahun, Sikura, and Kampf. These players are not the bottom six we need to become playoff contenders next season. It’s great to see Kane once again carry this teram on his shoulders. If we trade AA and get some return along with all those bottone six players listed above, then the next GM can sign one of OPanarin, Stone or Skinner and maybe add a Dzingel as well. Myers in Winnipeg is too expensive but they have lots of prospects as well. Draft Spencer Knight as a goalie for the future along with Kappo!”
Response:
Kruger, Kunitz, Hayden, Kampf, are prototype bottom six guys. This is Kunitz final season. Sikura they are developing in Rockford, and it is not to be a bottom line guy.
You keep saying trade AA. You DO know he has a modified NTC until July 1 right?
The next GM? And who would that be, now let’s see, which week is it in your world? Tallon? Doug Wilson? One of the Sutter family? Bill Zito? Hunter? Dean Lombardi? It changes with you just like the direction of the wind.
Draft Spencer Knight and Kappo? I thought you said they were both sure fire 1st round picks. You DO know the Blackhawks have ONE first round pick in this draft, right?
Did you ever look up Tallon’s GM tenure in Chicago, is it still a decade as you claimed?
Did you ever look up the characters in Welcome Back Kotter to see which one had the loud obnoxious laugh? (Hint: Arnold Horshack NOT the Travolta character)
How is that letter to Rocky Wirtz coming along? Or are you afraid to write it, preferring to rant incoherently and incorrectly on an anonymous fan message board?
Oh yes. Another poster, I think Wrap, said you went by the name Makita21 here. True? Did you change to Hull65 because you couldn’t spell Mikita?
So many questions and so few answers from you. Get crackin’!
Row A, enough already with Hull65
Agree Ian, not disputing that. What my point was the Hawks won with 3 defenders, one who played really bad Oduya, and two that hardly saw ice time and still won the cup. The Forwards, the 3 DEF and Crawford (except the first series) gave us the cup.
Here is some logic ER, the Hawks team that started the season is not the same as now. Duh, right. Stats are only a measuring stick not an end all be all to judge. It is your opinion these Stats matter. Logic again. Dan marino and ARod had great stats but did not produce when the game counted in the playoffs.
Hull65: Kane is special and we need to make sure we use this special player for today. Not 3-5 years from now. The kane era will come to an end just like MJ and look where the bulls are 25+ years later… The great Gretzky only won 4. Kane will join him soon.
It is my opinion it would be better for the Hawks to make the playoffs and hope for the best. Vegas took a bunch of cast offs to the promise land.
There seems to be more venom and vitriol than usual here lately, probably coinciding with our fanatical emotions being toyed with – we suck, we’re going to win the Cup, we suck, we’re going to win the Cup, we suck … well, you get the idea.
Maybe it’s time for some feel good thoughts we can all agree on. Like how about Kaner playing out of his gourd lately. On pace for a career year and that’s saying something considering the career he’s had up till now. Or how about the Captain who not only isn’t “done” but he’s on pace to have a career year too. And what about that dinky cat fellow who is about to blow past his very respectable rookie season stats and there’s still 1/3 of the season to play. i guess we could lament about Nick … uh .. whats-his-name … uh … starts with and “S” I think … uh, well, no matter because the guy we got back in the trade – Dylan Strome – has played well enough to make us forget ole Nick Whats-his-name. And there’s more happy happy stories than those if you give it some thought.
Looking ahead there is a logjam at right defense:
Seabrook (difficult contract to move)
Murphy (just what we need for a SHD)
Jokiharju (keeper)
Boqvist (lineup player in 2020- 21)
Mitchell (lineup player in 2020- 21)
It would have been crowded even without Boqvist which is one of the reasons I was surprised Stan picked him (although he does love those PMDs so I should have known better). Some guys can switch sides seamlessly (Hjammer), others can’t (Murphy). I think dealing Mitchell at some point (or trying him on the other side) is the most likely option but that still leaves one too many. This will be interesting.
Yeh-Hull 65 is at least giving other thoughts and suggestions-
he’s off the script and that is great.
With the Hawks having won those three Cups I’m OK with whatever course happens this year-bottom 5 and a really nice draft pick or just getting in and a mid pick-either way they are on the upswing but certainly still need some improvement and talented playoff grit. Really hope Delia is for real. Need to improve from the net out, with Crow’s history and age.
In keeping with ER’s post, Carl Dahlstrom coming in and playing effectively as a shutdown defenseman against the other teams top line has been a revelation for this team. It was a slot that no one was filling until he was called up, and until Murphy came back from injury. Now the Hawks can actually defend other teams top lines.
Brandon Saad has turned his game around 100% from when Q was benching him earlier in the season. I guess you could say it worked, he looks like a different player.
Speaking of looking like a different player, Eric Gustafsson seems to have reached a whole higher level being able to leverage his offensive abilities, and has lifted up our power play in the process. He is one of the higher scoring offensive defensemen in the league.
“There seems to be more venom and vitriol than usual here lately,”
ER, Not from me and did not take your posts that way either. in fact, I started my post by telling Row A to layoff Hull65.
I work with Numbers every day, the story needs an opinion for it to bring value. One of my pet peeves is when people look at the numbers only and make assumptions but the reverse is true when people take the emotions and make assumptions. We both have an extreme view: you want to lose, I want to win. We will not agree. My logic statement was when the playoffs happen, anyone can win. Vermette going from the press box to game hero. I have always wondered since the last cup if Keith, Seabs, and Nick decline was due to Q overusing them to win. I am ok with it.
If you look at the standings the team we’re really chasing is STL although we’ll have to overtake all the other teams in front of us to get to STL
Currently STL is 2 games over .500 and the Hawks 3 games under .500
VAN by comparison is at .500 even
Catching up to STL means making up 5 games and then passing them means at least 6 games – that’s a tall order although not impossible
I agree with the poster who suggested this team is like the 07-08 team that just missed the playoffs – I can see this year’s Hawks doing the same and I don’t think that’s a bad thing
It would be amazing if they pulled off a miracle run and qualified for the post season but even to be playing meaningful games to the end of the season will be good experience for them and the next year making the playoffs would be much more realistic
A top 5 pick seemed almost a certainty not so very long ago – now it seems an unlikely scenario – as I said before I’m looking at the Hawks drafting 10 -15 and if that means there in the playoff mix until the end (or very close to) I’ll take it
Noonan96, I hope Delia is as well with Crawford’s situation.
Wild captain Mikko Koivu to miss remainder of season
@ Hawks in TX
Maybe in Texas that telling people what to do stuff works, but you’re barking up the wrong tree with me.
Hull65 is “off script” because the Blackhawks won last night and against Minnesota. Not so coincidentally he had zero posts after those two games.
However, when the Blackhawks next lose a game, you’ll see him back “on script”.
“”Row A, enough already with Hull65” is not telling you what to do. If I am barking up a tree, that makes you a cat, scared which is probably why you badger Hull65.
Enjoy your cat life and post on.
@ Hawks in TX
Ok it’s not telling me what to do, whatever you say. Do you understand English, or just numbers?
You work with numbers all day. Your directives have this much effect on me:
Seven minus seven.
Enjoy your numbers life.
Thanks Row A. You must be a Numbers guy 2 but you messed up Column and Row. It is column A and Row 1. We numbers guys forgive u.
@Hawk4Life Marion Hossa is a world class player. They do not come around often; nor when they do are they always as big 6’4. I’m sure there were players before 1950 who should have been on the top 100 list that didnt make the cut for some reason or other. Same goes from 1950-1990. Hossa not being on the list is a bit of a shame. Many will say the same for Malkin. Hossa in my opinion was one of the best players on the rink for the Blackhawks when they were swept by the Predators, course you have to ignore that drop pass to the predator at the blue line that would turn into the game winning overtime goal for the Predators. Hossa was clearly a player who stepped it up in the playoffs. Have to wonder how many other players do that….
Anybody thinking about landing another 1st rounder, Bob McKenzie saying today Leafs 1st pick to LA for Muzzin. SJ 1st pick to Buf for E. Kane St. Louis 1st pick to Buf for Reilly. Bolts 1st pick untradeable because NYR have conditional pick that if Bolts win cup it belongs to NYR. Plus Sens 1st to Avs of course.
Wrap Blues look like a tough team for sure, but they have a heavy load of top teams from here on. Could help make doing those makeup games a lot more possible.
@ Hawks In TX
How little you know. Were you ever at the Chicago Stadium? I was. It was Row A, Row B, Row C, etc. Look it up. While you’re doing that, maybe you can help out your new best buddy Hull65 by getting him some correct answers.
Your post to Ebony at 3:40 said and I quote: ” I started my post by telling Row A to layoff Hull65.”
Let’s see … you told Row A to …
Sounds kind of like telling someone what to do.
You might want to stick strictly to numbers. Probably best you stay away from columns and rows too, especially since you don’t know what you’re talking about in this instance.
Completely agree with Miroslav, ER, and GlenHall that the Hawks will not go far in the playoffs and it is wise to be mainly sellers at the TDL. As I stated in the previous thread, half the teams make the playoffs. ER points out that the Hawks are 1-9 against four Western Conference teams. It is delusional to believe they can get past these teams and make it to the finals. And whoever makes it, say hello to TB (most likely).
The Hawks have enough high-quality players and prospects to build on. At the TDL, if contenders trip over themselves with great offers for players which management thinks will not take us to the next level within two years, they should go for it. I like the Hartman trade (only 18 points in 55 games, +7). Duncan Keith 2-3 years from now?
Just two years ago, the Hawks’ farm system was ranked about at the bottom. It is now ranked closer to the middle. Getting high picks/prospects, while clearing cap space, should be the major priority.
@ER, agree on what’s to like about the Hawks. Arrow is pointing up. Want to see the likes of Strome, Jokiharyu and Dahlstrom take some steps forward next year (like DeBrincat did this year…)
@Wrap, great point about catching St. Louis for a playoff spot, I wonder why it took them so long to get in the playoff race? They were talked about as one of the biggest disappointments early this year but seem to playing like they were supposed to…
One last point about the Hawks playoff chances -vs- getting a lottery pick. I think that getting a player with one of the top 5 picks will do more to help the Hawks get to the playoffs and be competitive again than anything else. It’s like when the San Antonio Spurs had David Robinson, they were good, but couldn’t get over the top. He got hurt for a year and the team sucked. They won the lottery and selected Tim Duncan #1 overall. Robinson and Duncan went on to win a couple Championships playing together.
Talent trumps all. If all things are equal, the team with better talent is going to win more often than not. (If all else things are equal.) Message to Stan: forget the playoffs and get that top 5 pick for the Hawks. Message to hawks players: Keep playing like you are, this is fun to watch!
If you wonder what alot of top 3 picks can look like, you saw it last night against the Blackhawks.
Miroslav, as I just posted, agree that the Hawks should be sellers, but they should not unload players for anything less than a very good return. Even if they sell, I doubt they will get into the top 5 with the way they have been playing. But drafting maybe 8th, like last year, is not bad.
Am mainly writing to comment on your NBA draft example. Not a good analogy. The impact a single player makes on an NBA team is far greater than any other sport. There are only five players on the court at one time and some play for 40 min. Notice what happens to a team when Lebron or Durant move around the league. Most people couldn’t name other players during the Bulls’ dynasty, other than Michael and Scottie. That’s because nearly all of the others were mainly role players and not the core. Higher NBA draft picks can play right away and seldom need development, unlike in hockey. I like hockey much more than basketball, but the draft which takes place the night before the NHL draft is much more exciting to watch.
David Robinson like last year Crawford and drafted a top DEF this year and traded Hartman to get another first. Interesting neither is in CHicago and may not be productive until Toews and kane are 32-35. No thanks. Win today.
“Strome, Jokiharyu and Dahlstrom take some steps forward next year” Are they not taking steps forward this year? Strome and Dahlstrom have played very well. Better than I expected. Henri is all of 19 yrs old. High expectations.
WTF is Row A at United Center. Is that the bathroom? I know when I order tickets it usually has Section 102, Row 9, Seat 1. Looked at ticket. Am I missing something? Maybe A is a special Row us poor numbers guys can’t afford after crunching numbers. Maybe Row A has season tickets again us low life numbers guys can’t afford. Enjoy the seats, I am jealous.
Silence from you guys on this big news. The Wild took a big hit today:
Mikko Koivu Suffers Season-Ending Injury
Hawks in TX, your quote “We both have an extreme view: you want to lose, I want to win.” is horse hockey. It’s akin to me saying “Hawks in TX wants to live in a fantasy world, EbonyRaptor wants to live in the real world”. That is the extreme view you mention.
I doubt I have to tell you this because you I’m quite certain you don’t actually believe your comment about me wanting the Hawks to lose – it was just you being snarky. But I’ll clarify just in case I’ve misread you – I want the Hawks to win. Specifically I want the Hawks to win the Cup. Simply winning this game or that game is a source of enjoyment but really only a means to an end, the end being winning the Cup.
Our difference of opinion isn’t wanting the Hawks to win versus wanting them to lose – it’s whether or not the 2018/19 Hawks are good enough to win the Cup this season. I would prefer to miss the playoffs for a few years is it means it gets up closer to winning the Cup sooner than later – versus – eking into the playoffs as a middle of the road team with no shot at winning the Cup in the foreseeable future.
ORIGINAL6HAWKEY
Rodman, Harper, Paxson, Grant, Hodges, Kerr, Kukoc, Longley, Wennington, you want me to go on. Harper, Rodman, Longley, Kukoc, and Kerr were studs on the best ever NBA team.
Liked what KK brought last night – it’ll be interesting to see how Colliton handles Dahlstrom, KK and Forsling
Also regardless of how well the Hawks are playing right now and where they stand relative to the playoffs the big picture is still to contend for the Cup ideally in 2 years.
With that in mind I think if there are good offers out there for AA and Keith (if he’s agreeable) they should be moved – not convinced that there will be offers good enough but if there are…
Assuming Kruger gets moved at TDL and maybe Forsling if Keith doesn’t go
Er, I think they do have enough talent to Win the Cup, you do not. That has been my point. We are a player short on Top9 and maybe Sikura is that player. I would love to get a top4 DEF. The talent we have on this team is incredible to me, add a top9 and we role 4 lines. Add a top 4 DEF and we role 3. Is that clear?
Er, just for the record, I completely understand your stance and others who think this team is not good enough. I am not mad, upset, or take it personal. I like your points because you hold strong views and respect that. I hold strong views the other way. I have no beef with you just like you do not with me. In fact, you have made some comments that make a good case for your view.
@ORIGINAL6, I don’t recall ever advocating the Hawks dump players and not get value in return.
I do stand by my analogy because it shows what can happen when a team that is good has an opportunity to add a great talent to it’s roster. It’s a game changer, regardless of what sport.
Perhaps you think I am overvaluing the power of early picks in the first round. This article does a nice job of showing on average what kinds of players are chosen in each position in the first round.
https://www.tsn.ca/statistically-speaking-nhl-draft-pick-value-1.786131
Note how drastically the drop off is after the first three picks. Notice again the drop off around picks 15-30.
I stand by my analogy of the Spurs and Robinson because if he hadn’t gotten hurt, the Spurs never have a chance to add a first round draft pick to a team that already had an MVP caliber player in Robinson on it. The Hawks are in a similar situation.
This is the best chance they will have to get a lottery pick while Kane and Toews are still on the roster and playing like elite players.
Miroslav, you misinterpreted what I said. I agree with you about Stan being a seller and was just emphasizing the requirement of receiving a very good return, which is often possible at the TDL. I also agree that it would be fine if the trades resulted in a shortage of depth for the remainder of the season, resulting in additional losses and a higher pick, I am for that as well.
Am not disagreeing that early picks can have a large impact in any sport. But your example of Robinson getting hurt proves my point. In the NBA, one star player that goes down has a larger impact than in any other sport (possible exception of a star QB being injured).
Miroslav are seriously believing that with Kane and Toews having career years, having fun playing again. Looking forward to trying to get in playoffs and showing these young guys what playoff hockey is all about, that Bowman and Colliton are going to say funs over we’re in lose for Hughes mode the rest of the way. C’mon you want to destroy the dressing room and lose the respect of your franchise players. Don’t think so. If it happens, then so be it.
ER, not going against what your saying. Stats can be misleading, were not 1-9 vs those teams were 2-7-1. That is still reaity shitty/when not having full roster. I think were better then .500 against all other top 10 or so teams. Your point though is who we would play and yea we havnt. I wouldnt expect to though, without a full roster, not even 3 qtrs of a full roster, its not fair, yet. NAS and WIN are top 3 teams and CAL is top 5 team.
NAS/WIN/CAL/SAN- 2-7-1
other top 10 or so- 11-5-2
One thought is, you take out when we played like shit, 0-6-2 and 0-8. Which you cant really count because we only had half a ‘top 5’/’contender’ roster. Then were 2-2-1 against those teams and that is the team we are, not the one during those bad sections and not somewhere in between.
Now the record when not during those bad sections, where we did not even have between a 2/4-3/4 full roster. The roster we have now-with more guys geting to that 200 games defenseivly and FW more games under their belt in this league.
NAS/WIN/CAL/SAN- 2-2-1
other top 10 or so- 9-0-1
So to me its when we played those teams and when we had more then half a full roster. if we had same exact roster, Id say ok, thats just ups and downs, but this is a different roster with those trades and we have lots of guys with upside coming, that are already here, not the blue chip/really good prospects that arnt even here yet.
Wow were 9-0-1 since that 8 game loss stretch against top 10 or so teams, not counting NAS/WIN/CAL/SAN, and were 2-2-1 against them.
So that 1-9 is a little misleading, but it made me look it up and I didnt realize weve done that good since those two bad stretchs/which was when we mad trades and adjusted to new system.
Golden, yeah since those two bad stretchs 0-6-2, 0-8 we have played really good. When the De bob lee swagger cat said after we blew out PIT 6-3 on the post game game of the wk show that were a good team just needed to start the games when they started and such. You think sure but were not good yet. Bang, since he said that we have been that, good top half of mid tier teams.
Which is a playoff team, like a 5or6 seed. So in a yr and 2 yrs from now were back to top 5/10 team. Really exciting to know that and that this 2yr transition/having bad record, feeling like that is over now. It started with that thrashing of PIT 6-3.
Mo, it doesn’t matter if they can beat teams they won’t play in the playoffs – it does matter that they can’t beat the team they would play in the first round which will probably be one of Calgary, San Jose, Winnipeg and Nashville.
Yes the Hawks have been playing better lately but they’re still giving up too many goals to win a 7-game series against a very good team like those named above. Over the 5-game win streak, they’ve given up 3.00 goals per game. Over the past 10 games they’ve given up 3.50 goals per game. I don’t know exactly when they started “playing better” but if you want to go back 20 games to December 16th – they’ve given up 3.50 goals per game.
And yes, those are “just statistics” which don’t always tell the whole story but if you don’t want to rely solely on statistics, then ask yourself if your eye test tells you that the Hawks are good enough defensively to beat one of those 4 teams in the first round, let alone 4 top teams to win the Cup?
@ Hawks in TX
Obviously you have trouble reading, too!
I clearly wrote CHICAGO STADIUM, not the United Center. The CHICAGO STADIUM, where the Blackhawks used to play. Learn to read and comprehend. At the old CHICAGO STADIUM, it was Row A, Row B, Row C, etc.
Maybe if you’d learn to read and comprehend instead of telling people what to do, things would be easier for you and they’d make more sense.
Go look it up if you don’t believe me about the CHICAGO STADIUM. I was not referring to the United Center, I was referring to the CHICAGO STADIUM, as I clearly wrote in my post.
For a numbers guy, you seem to have trouble putting two and two together.
Ian – not disagreeing with you about how an obvious tank would lose the respect of the core players in the dressing room but if Keith goes it’ll only be because he wants to and that wouldn’t ruin the dressing room and it would also help in losing a few games down the stretch at least you’d think so and should help in making the Hawks a contending team in 2 ish years (dependent on the return of course)
In 2 years Joki should be able to fill the shoes (skates) of a 2 year older Keith
Having said that I don’t think Keith will be traded but I’d be glad to be wrong
Mike r, I would rather play CAL to, since they are young new and in experienced. Just like WIN was last yr/WIN prob a little more in prime yrs for player then CAL but similiar.
During the fist 40 games I knew the 2nd 40 games sch was normal and the first 40 games sch was fucked bs. I knew we played good could go 25-15 and gain 10. Then we lose 8 and people think top 3 % pick for sure. Now people slight chance playoffs. Really with the 6-2-1 to start the 2nd 40 games, then lose 5/which half were ties, now win 5, were back on pace for that 25-15, which is playoffs.
Even though were still in that group of 6 teams for a top 6 pick. Were closer to .500 now and we are a (top half of) mid tier team. Because of the COL collapse going from 10 to 1 (they are going to be good, their just to young yet/not ready yet) now there isint just the 7 or 8 seed available, they are suppose to be the 6 seed (COL).
I still think COL will recover and be 6 seed. If they donot and stay around .500 to plus 5 then those spots are open. DAL and MIN have been around 5 sine game 10, for 45 games so they would need to stay around 5 to. We go 25-15 in 2nd 40 games were right there with them.
Think same. And with stats, even though were 2-2-1 against those four teams, that we would play, since we got those trades/adjusted roster and new system. Were not there yet roster deep wise, so your right on what your saying.
I do not want to route against team, I havnt/wont ever. I agree with you a top 6 pick is better for roster for when wee deep again then a 15 and 46th pick. There is a big difference in 3 and 35 to 15 and 46th. Thats why I would rather have top 6 pick then make playoffs. Its a tuff spot to be in when we need reload but are to good/pridefull to end up with bottom 5 record.
Well see if were in it, thanks to COL collapse and DAL an MIN around 5 the whole way to 82 games. That might determine how long we play good to, because once we cant get in it might be different.
Wrap if Keith indicates he’s not happy they will try to accommodate him, thats the only way i see anything happen. Right now theres no reason to believe it would.
EB can Blackhawks win a playoff series or 2, maybe not be favorites, but upsets are often the story in sports come playoff time. Nothing guaranteed in playoffs as 1st seed or 8th.
For GF or GA, when we were best team/and one of best every yr from 2009-2016 we were at highest 1.00 full GF more then GA. Only the top team/some teams are and were were in top 3/5 in both not just one, which all others were only top 5 in one of those categorys.
If were scoring 4.5 GF then 3.5 GA is fine. For playoffs and beating top teams we need to be good, like your saying, and have a top 5 roster to begin with and were not there yet.
Just saying, not against your talking about, in terms of that particular stat.
Thats whats so exciting because were good when we ‘play’ with between a 2/4-3/5 full roster, caint wait until we get a full roster. Then it begins.
That happens.
To me LA and NAS were not ever 8 seed, they just donot give a F about reg season standings, only playoffs. Plus were build for playoffs not season-to the point they almost didnt make on some of those yrs.
A question for the board:
Is it possible for the Hawks to BOTH take steps to have a greater future (be sellers at TDL, gain cap space, get a high draft pick) and ALSO stay good this year?
I understand both sides of the issue. I like what I see right now, but I also know it’s not cup material.
So how do we balance the fun and good stuff (the offense, the PP, Kane, 19, etc) with the need to improve for tomorrow?
ER, agree and think feel same with your posts. People just look at it from different angles.
How about that PP, eh. Holy shit thats going to be nice when we have a full roster in 2 rys to have a PP like that and by then they ll be more Use to each other. Going to be deadly.
Times like this are when I’m glad we have Bowman as GM. The guy has made mistakes but he won’t make reactionary decisions that jeopardize the future because of one 5 game win streak. He is level headed and that’s valuable in a GM.
Re Kahun, i also think he has more upside to show. I’d also be happy with him on the 3rd line because that would mean we have someone else who produces on the 2nd. For now he seems fine where he is.
The following roster can win a cup next year if nobody regresses or is seriously injured.
Cagg Toews Kane
Panarin Anisimov DeBrincat
Saad Strome Kahun
Perlini Kampf Hayden
Keith Seabrook
Gustafsson Horseman/UFA
Murphy Dahlstrom
Koekkoek
Still a bit weak on the backend but the forwards make up for it on both sides of the puck. 3 legit scoring lines and several guys who can competently move up or down for matchups or injuries. Solid PP, hopefully build the PK from within.
Not throwing in the towel on this year yet. Crow will return. If we stay hot and then get him back, watch out.
Prospects: Chl
Gravel 25 saves 26 shots win
Icehogs: Johnson 1g
Sikura 1a
Carlson 1a
Forsberg 45 saves 46 shots win
Travis – no Kubalik? I think he’ll be on the roster next year
Torn – if AA were moved at TDL I think the Hawks could continue to play well and compete for a playoff spot and with his freed up cap space add an additional UFA in the summer or a roster player from another team
We’ve talk before the Leafs for example will need to trade someone this summer – Kapanen? Khadri?
Let’s pretend for example the Hawks got Stone (UFA) and Kapanen (trade) in the summer – that would be a huge upgrade – just spitballin’
Miroslav,
I am really excited to see the Hawks playing loose and winning games, but I have to temper that optimism with the knowledge that this is happening with Kane and Toews having career years. This team looks legit but it has a stink of fools gold to it as well. I am still not confident this group as constructed can win a playoff series against anyone. Not sure they win a game even. Maybe the experience of the playoffs could be good for these young players, but I am not sure I would trade a lottery pick for the experience of losing a playoff series. Let them get that experience next year.
I look at 19 and 88 having career yrs basically every yr they have played. Kaner prob 10 of 10 and Tazer 8 of 10 yrs were elite good. Other then a couple off yrs.
Think same and why I want a top 6 pick, so were better/get that much better of a wave of blue chip players and really good prospects. So when were deep were back to one of the top teams, not just a top 10 team-like BOS.
Oh Oh-the two numbers seen in the above picture-(again-gulp) 7 –2
Coincidence?
Never say never.
I do believe that one of the things the Hawks need to address is the ability to play heavy, gritty hockey in the various rounds of the playoffs-the Huge ‘IF’ from above-Panarin gives them even more talent upfront-(taking away the economic realities of adding another big salary) I like the upfront talent-
I like that Caggiula adds some sandpaper, but I think they are two guys away (one of the D and one upfront) that are really hard to play against. During those heavy, sometimes viscous playoff games. Do they already have them? Not sure.
The improved play of Dalhstrom, and Murphy and Gus on the power play helps. Delia may or may not be a playoff goalie-one of the benefits of getting into the playoffs this year is to see who is playoff ready. Strome has helped a lot.
But true contender this year against Tampa, Washington, Preds, Jets etc. ??? That is a huge leap of faith. Can they kill penalties when it counts. Is the coach playoff ready? How will Seabs and the younger players play in the playoffs? They will rely on Keith as he approaches age 36. Still some questions.
The good news is it seems that they believe in themselves and the systems they are playing. They still need to get better. IMO.
Miro,
@HEREISMIKE, I just wanted to clarify that while I think getting playoff experience may be helpful for the young Hawks, I would prefer that this season the Hawks get a lottery/top five pick. Someone else mentioned this (maybe @ER or @Wraparound in another post…) that the worst possible scenario is the Hawks making a furious rush to make the playoffs only to fall just short and end up with a pick between 10-15.
For me it’s either a top 5 draft pick (best scenario,) with a playoff appearance being second. I don’t want them with a middling pick in this draft and not make the playoffs….
This team is closer to the team that didn’t make the playoffs (the 07-08 team) than the one that made it and lost to Detroit in the conference finals (08-09.)
I did (others have to before that) the other day. We need and want the wave to be as stacked as possible. Yeah were like that 2008 team, which only had half a roster that yr. It wasnt until 2009, the first time we had full roster. So its just like that 2008 where we were on our way and having a better wave helped stack the team.
Oh yeah, we need some Shawzers to round up the roster for when were deep.
Jordy, I think its better to keep drafting the better players. No matter if were loaded at FW or D. Because you get a better player. Then just trade from there when needed or want to get whats needed. Overall result, roster is better by having more blue chip defensemen then less.
I look at it as move others out the way for the Four Horsemen. Depending on who becomes good and how good, then go from there.
NAS did t that way and they are top 3 team because of it. With only getting lucky to have Forsberg. They added FW ufas and traded one of their really good D for a top 6 center.
Noonan, thinking the same things.
What’s going to happen on the ice is going to happen. I don’t want the players to do anything other than play their best and try to win. My concern is what Stan does or doesn’t do. If he truly believes the team is in “maintenance mode” which is what he said in a recent interview – than do what the plan called for before this 5-game winning streak – stick to the plan Stan. If the plan was to be sellers – then sell, regardless if it hurts the chances to make the playoffs this season. And by all means DO NOT be a buyer unless the acquired player is part of the future plan.
I’m enjoying watching the Hawks play better. I hope they keep it up. Just don’t do anything to hurt the team next season and beyond.
With Koivu going down and Dumba suppsedly not coming back anytime soon, the Wild will be hard pressed to stay in contention. I wouldn’t be surprised if they threw in the towel and were sellers. Eric Stall is UFA and would be a nice TDL pickup for a contending team.
Wrap, I look at it as teams are in groups. COL was (and will prob get back to plus 10, if they play) so not sure if they do. Where DAL and MIN are the 7 and 8 seed and have been at around 5 over .500 since game 10, 45 games is a long time.
To me I group the teams because anyone of them could be the team we need to get ahead of for position. The group of teams 4-9 under, the group that is around .500 and then those two DAL and MIN around 5, and every team 10 or better is lock. Every once in awhile a team goes from one group to another, like PHI just did winning 8 going from -7 to plus 1.
We might be doing same thing if we win 8 in a row, which would have us -8 to 0 and in that group of teams around .500 and so the way I look at it, angle I am coming from, is the teams will stay in those groups unless theres a big winning like PHI and CHI (might be on verge of) or COL collapse going from 10 to 1.
So to me, every team in the group around .500 is who you need to beat to get that 8 seed and if COL stays where they collapsed to, then 6 or 7 seed is right there if we get to 5 over.
“Whatever satisfies the soul is truth”, Walt Whitman.
Row, again you never answer anything about Bowman’s performance because you show up at the convention every year to meet the Sikura and Baun’s of the Stan family hype stable.
Of course, Kappo and/or Spencer Knight, who was listed as a bottom 15 in the 1st round, would be worth tanking for. It’s a nice quick retool like the Bruins did a few years ago after firing Bowman’s twin brother Peter Chiarelli.
How about trading Beaudin for Knight? In other words my friend, GM’s are paid to be creative not just accountants who bankrupt a farm system. Again, why so aggressive in your meek responses of spelling and your obsession with some other Mikita dude, are you that paranoid? Or just have nothing to say that is constructive or creative.
AA can waive his clause if he joins a playoff team like the Jets, right. A team who can actually and hopefully win the Cup for Bobby Hull’s Jets! I know I am cheering for that GM to take Stanley away from the Caps!
Now, maybe you can answer how Sikura can’t beat out Kahun, Hayden, Kunitz, Kampf? I mean the hype your boy Bowman created was incredible. Sikura was a good college player at age 22 by the way, not at 18? Wish him luck.
Whatever, you keep dreaming along while we look into the future. Oh yes, that list of Gm’s is a good one for Rocky to visit during the off season.
Go Kane! Hopefully Crow comes back soon, he’s fun to watch as well. Enjoying Rockford Row?…Pelletier, Knott, Iacopelli, Sikura, Anthony Louis!!!
Cheers
So to me theres your groups, bottom group, teams around .500 group, teams around 5 area.
OTT/COL- 10
LA- 5
NWJ- 5
DET- 4
ANA- 3
CHI- 3
gap
EDM- 2
ARI- 2
FLR- 1
COL- 0
VAN- 0
NYR- 1
PHI- 1
STL- 2
gap
MIN- 4
DAL- 7
I think those guys meant Bowman said maintenance mode fro when we were adding and keeping everyone as long as we could. Then since we traded Hammer, its been building mode. Bowman is cool calm and collected. I am sure he makes good moves for future and getting roster stacked again.
With different coaches I think Bowman makes better trades by going with new style and new system and it being the same across the board. Where before it was accommodating things that kept it from being full across the board.
Wrap, so your right STL is the highest of the 6 and 7 and 8 seed spots.
Another thing to consider is when we were the best team for 8 yrs (a couple of those like 11 were were not/played with 6 AHL players because of cap) we always had the dog days of the 82 games season. So how many of these teams are better or worse just because of that.
With enough of the middle part of the 82 games being played, teams that are on the move up or down might revert back to whatever it is when certain teams start ‘playing’ again. I can COL start to ‘play’ again once it gets closer to crunch time and take their 6 seed spot back over. DAL staying around .500 and so on.
Another thing to is with MIN having top player hurt and COL collapse the 7 and 8 seed could be there for the group of teams around .500, which really anyone of them could win 5 in a row and be at plus 5. Point being its up for graps for two teams in the group of teams around .500 group (with MIN falling and COL collapse).
I will make it real easy for you Row, maybe then you can move on and start commenting with more creativity than childish rhetoric.
The NHL for the last 10 years has focused on size and speed combined, right? Hawks and Pens the biggest example as well as the Caps!
Now, if you can answer a very simple question which is how does an NHL GM of today sign in the last two off seasons some of the slowest skating free agent, fringe bottom players in the league?And overpay them as well? If Bowman is a wizard or a genuis as you suggest, then just answer that simple Bouma, Manning, Franson Kunitz, Kruger, etc… question.
Forget it, too hard. Cheers
On NHL Network tonight the host said that with the loss of Koivu, the Wild will likely be sellers at the TDL. Oh no, not another competitor trying to unload their players.
“DO NOT be a buyer unless the acquired player is part of the future plan.” – ER
Yup. I trust Bowman to abide. If he abandons the future for a pipe dream this year because of a 5 game win streak, then that’s the last straw for me and I’ll start using Hull66 as my posting handle.
Wrap – Hard for me to include a player I’ve never really seen (admitting my ignorance). Swap Kubalik for Perlini. If he’s better than a 4th liner, then that’s great, bump him up.
I agree with Hull that the forwards at the Rock are underwhelming and need to be replenished. I still think we aren’t that far off. We can flip some blue chips on the backend for FW prospects or a TDL acquisition next year. Disagree with Hull that Kahun belongs on the same list as Hayden, Kampf, or (LOL) Kunitz.
People might not agree with everything Bowman has done. By getting ‘tank’ ufas on two seasons we knew we wernt a top 5 roster (because of not having 81 and 4 and whatnot) is genius we get more blue chip players from draft. Stack the Defense for the future.
Get the hunger back (in terms of a recharge) after playing the most playoffs games in the history of the NHL in a, what, 7 yr period. Now thats a dynasty.
Who cares, unless we do not have enough to settle up and stay on square for player bonuses, if we gave some guys higher caphits when it doesnt matter.
Just curious- reflecting on Hayden- type players from college- are college grads in NHL better and/or successful more frequently than the WHL, CHL or Quebec junior leagues? You would think that the college kids might play fewer games therefore not as “battle worn” for the NHL, and the quality of play has to be lower than junior hockey?? Just wondering if anyone has looked statistically at this?
You ck that, I think you got to group players. Like elite, high end, really good, good, average joes.
Tazer and Dunks are college players. More juniors in NHL then college players.
College and Euro play against more physical players, battle tested wise.
@Ian, I’m not sure what you are asking me. I am not suggesting that anyone tell the Hawks players to tank or simply dump key guys just to get rid of them without getting value in return.
All I am suggesting is that Bowman should stay in sell mode and be aggressively trying to move anyone who is not considered “untouchable” or has a key role in the future.
If that means that the Hawks have a harder time getting to the playoffs this year, I’m ok with that. This is the best chance the Hawks have in getting a lottery pick (during Kane and Toews remaining tenure) and I encourage anything they can do to increase those chances, with the caveat of not dumping key players without getting value in return.
Are we good? I don’t want to harsh anyone’s buzz. I just think the chance of drafting a top 5 player who could potentially replace Kane or Toews but also play along side them while they are still productive is too good to pass up.
We have all been begging for a Forward Upgrade next year…
BUT- with the additions of Strome/Caggs/ and Kubalik soon… and Kurashev/Barratt/Hagel
I can see-
Caggs/19/88
12/Strome/Kahun – line has been effective
20/Kurashev or Kampf/Kubalik
Hyaden/Kampf/Hagel orEntwistle
I can actually see SB pulling a Rabbit out of his ass… and Going with a STUD D man this off season… (I really don’t see a Hossa – in the UFA works/future)… Stone/Duchene/Etc. are nice… But NOT Hossa like and “Older” than I want
So- WTS- can Tab or anyone out there throw out some TRUE # 1 D Guys that are either UFA/ or ELC (and Might be tradeable- to Hawks this off season)???
@ Hull65
Your moronic statements, my responses:
“Row, again you never answer anything about Bowman’s performance because you show up at the convention every year to meet the Sikura and Baun’s of the Stan family hype stable.”
Never been to the Blackhawk convention. Wrong again.
How about all those questions you are asked that you avoid daily?
Did you check Tallon’s GM tenure? Is it still a decade as you claimed, or was it something less, like four years?
Did you look up that Welcome Back Kotter thing you got wrong?
How is that letter to Rocky Wirtz coming along, or are you afraid to write it?
Those are just three, there are many more. Maybe you can ask your new bestest buddy Hawks in TX to help you. You both have something in common, you have trouble reading and comprehending.
Can a struggling team who fired their coach and be written off at New Years, make a second half playoff run? With a rookie goalie replacing no.1 goalie, a defence that says you can’t contend, two 30 year old battle worn superstar forwards who doubters don’t think they can do it or have the forward support for another run. Everyone saying go total rebuild, trade your stars, what can they do? Team that was just described is 2016 Pens.
Not saying mortgage any future but comparisons are hard to miss.
If you look at Blackhawks the cup teams stacked they were and dynasty we enjoyed. What if Erat doesn’t make a careless pass allowing Kane to score that SH goal with seconds remaining to tie ut up? What if Seabrook doesn’t score the Ot winner against Wings or Krugers triple Ot winner doesn’t happen? What if Darling struggles or even is average instead of lights out when Crawford struggling for a few games? What if Bickell or Boland were in Qs doghouse and glued to the bench instead of on the ice in Boston, etc? The legacy of those stacked cup teams could be very different even with all that talent by a couple of plays that coulda changed history. It takes alot variables, luck, fate, chemistry etc. to win one cup let alone 2 0r 3. Talent is needed yes but guarantees nothing.
Don’t think this has been covered, but please forgive me if it has;
Nashville went for a depth move yesterday by picking up Brian Boyle for a second round pick etc. Bob McKenzie mentioned on NHL Network how this could set the bar for what other teams might expect back for more elite players at the deadline. I saw it was already mentioned about some of the guys that are reportedly in the mix to be traded for first rounders. Adds a little bit more intrigue as to what the Blackhawks might be able to get for players that are tradable. Also interesting in that McKenzie thought that Wayne Simmonds would be traded by Philly even though there are playoff hopes for the Flyer Faithful.
@ Hull65
“your obsession with some other Mikita dude”
Are you denying, also known as lying, you were Makita21? Are you calling the poster Wraparound a liar? You KNOW you used to be Makita21 and changed to Hull65, probably because you were unable to properly spell Mikita. Another question you refuse to answer.
“How about trading Beaudin for Knight?”
Now that is just stupid. Not surprising coming from you.
“Now, maybe you can answer how Sikura can’t beat out Kahun, Hayden, Kunitz, Kampf?”
This has been explained to you at least 7-8 times. You are obviously unable to read and comprehend responses. You simply ask the question again and again and again if you don’t get an answer you like.
Here is the answer, AGAIN. Read it and comprehend if you are able.
This particular player, Sikura, is adjusting to pro hockey. It often takes players longer than a few months or 1/2 season to do so. You obviously know zero about the process of developing players, you seem to think they simply show up and are ready to play full time. Sadly, like most other things in your alternate reality, it doesn’t work that way.
The Blackhawks want Sikura to be a top 9 guy, not a bottom six guy like Hayden and Kunitz. They are playing Sikura at Rockford to give him loads of ice time to DEVELOP. Do you not get it? How hard is it to grasp? This question has now been answered at least 8 times. Meanwhile, I have posed many questions to you which continue to be unanswered. Why is that?
The CHL-NCAA has been a long debate, including on the site. Ultimately players are born great (or not) and those select few will be good no matter what.
The good players have a better shot in the CHL in my opinion mainly due to the schedule-# of games, type of schedule better reflecting the NHL.
(I still believe the strength of the players is slightly better in the CHL as well but that is closing and will be open for debate)
The coaching in the NCAA has caught up and there is really no advantage there-really good systems like London in the OHL and Boston College in the NCAA help so where you end up matters.
@ Hull65
I will make it real easy for you Row, maybe then you can move on and start commenting with more creativity than childish rhetoric.
“The NHL for the last 10 years has focused on size and speed combined, right? Hawks and Pens the biggest example as well as the Caps!
Now, if you can answer a very simple question which is how does an NHL GM of today sign in the last two off seasons some of the slowest skating free agent, fringe bottom players in the league?And overpay them as well? If Bowman is a wizard or a genuis as you suggest, then just answer that simple Bouma, Manning, Franson Kunitz, Kruger, etc… question.
Forget it, too hard. Cheers”
I have answered this question many times as well. You continue to ignore the answers and simply ask the question over and over and over and over because you do not like the response.
The answer will not change, here it is:
All those signings were short term placeholder signings. The coach at the beginning of the year was Q. Are you understanding so far?
All those players you named were one year signings for depth until other moves could be made or until prospects were ready. Do I have to say it in all CAPS like you do?
Now … time for you to answer the questions posed to you.
Did you look up Tallon’s GM tenure, how long was it, was it a decade as you claimed?
Did you look up the Welcome Back Kotter thing? Which character had the unique laugh, was it the Travlota character?
How many Stanley Cups has the great Dale Tallon won in Florida? How about the great Doug Wilson out in San Jose? Two of your GM-of-the-Week favorites.
Are you aware the Blackhawks have only ONE first round draft choice at this time?
Do you deny you were the user name Makita21 or are you calling the poster “Wraparound” a liar?
Time for you to answer the questions. No moving the goalposts. No asking your same questions which I have answered several times, administering a thrashing to you in the process.
Time for you to answer the questions.
Ian great post-it’s hard to win it all and it was a blessing three times.
@ Wall
It looks like the only true #1 D man available in UFA is Erik Karlsson. If he makes it to UFA.
What is interesting to note: The Blackhawks could have had Erik Karlsson in the draft, had not drafting wizard Dale Tallon liked the great Kyle Beach better.
@ Ebony
Your quote:
“If he truly believes the team is in “maintenance mode” which is what he said in a recent interview – than do what the plan called for before this 5-game winning streak – stick to the plan Stan.”
Actually it is the other way around, you misread what he said.
Bowman said they were previously in maintenance mode (when the team was winning Stanley Cups and shortly thereafter). He said now they’re in building mode.
He further said in regards to building mode – it is a process. It can’t be fully accomplished in one trading deadline, one free agency, one signing, etc.
There are three players on the Hawks that are shoe ins for the Hall of Fame and also rated in the 100 all time best hockey players. Even if they are close to obtaining a playoff spot the team needs to go for it as hard as they can. It’s unlikely the Hawks will be able to amass again this sort of elite talent for a long time. Obviously the team is more than three players, but there seems to be a sufficient supporting cast behind them with the play of late to make a valid run for the playoffs and once in anything can happen. Go Hawks!
The Blackhawks should still be sellers at the deadline. Anything not signed after this year can go. They need to clear some space on the blue line, so I would expect them to make every effort to move Davidson. And, frnakly, I wouldn’t be shocked or disappointed if they moved Gustafsson – his value may never be higher. Colliton is using him the right way (something Q never did w/ him or Michal Kempný) but he’s still a defensive liability more nights than not and the Hawks have so many young defensemen coming I would prefer they continue stockpiling younger assets.
For the hockey historians among us:
The statement “just make the playoffs, anything can happen”
It was a favorite saying of Bob Pulford. We saw how that worked out in Chicago.
Pulford built his teams to win the division, not to go for the Stanley Cup. It was an Original Six type of mentality, not exactly because the O6 was not division based but the parallels were clear.
The current Blackhawk players and coaching staff are pedal to the metal aiming for the playoffs because that’s what players and coaches do.
Management, meanwhile, has an eye toward the future by stating the team is in building mode. They know the old “Pulford-esque” philosophy typically isn’t good enough.
To add, very good point about Gustafsson. His value has never been higher. Why? The Blackhawks developed him, he is playing with tons of confidence.
They will be sellers at the deadline. It may not look like a traditional sell off. It might not just be expiring assets for draft choices, it may be more complex.
Like this: Moving a player (Gustafsson as just an example) for another young asset they think fits better in the long term.
It may even involve trading a young player along with a veteran to acquire a different young player they believe fits better. Schmaltz deal a good example, they thought Strome was a better fit and so far they are right.
Row, you are correct sir – I had the intent of Bowman’s comment correct but transposed the words – I meant to say “building mode” – not “maintenance mode”.
Notes from Rockford:
Dylan Sikura with two goals, four assists in his last 6 games.
Luke Johnson three goals, two assists in his last 5 games.
Lucas Carlsson four assists in his last 5 games.
For what it’s worth.
Row A if no top fa defencemen in sumner, should also mean rentals options at tdl at a minimum. So with the Blackhawks surplus, what they choose to offer should have premium value.
A lot of hope and promise around the young guns at Rockford- let’s not forget their size and age- don’t know about speed and puck skills ( vis a vis Goudreau or Kane who are exceptional!)
Sikura 5’11” , 160 lbs, 23 years old
Johnson 5’11”, 180 lbs, 25 years old
Carlsson 6’0”, 190 lbs, 22 years old
As Hawks build for near future- speed, size, skill – vs top 5-10 teams in the league need to be high in consideration. I love Kaner- he does get pushed around a lot, and pushed off the puck… thank goodness he’s sneaky fast and elusive so he can get freed up to assist and score… but he IS the exception
@ Hawk4Life
Luke Johnson: I would categorize him as an organizational depth player who can fill in as your 4th line center as needed.
Dylan Sikura: Improving defensively, still can be better. NHL offensive skills but today’s game is not just about those. Very good skater. I would like to see him stay in the AHL to develop the rest of the season. He made a superb Kane-esque cross ice mattress pass for a Luke Johnson power play goal last night. Obviously not comparing him to Kane but it was a high skill play.
Lucas Carlsson: Intriguing player. Skates well, smart defensively. Definitely a good all around prospect, probably the best they have in Rockford. An asset who has value. Probably another 1/2 season away but looks like NHL material.
Remember they want the AHL team to bond together, hopefully make the playoffs (they sit 1-2 points out right now) and play well together as a team. Development is the key word. Collin Delia = good example. Dahlstrom to an extent too.
Wait … does Collin Delia count since he wasn’t drafted?? LOL
I still want to believe Sikura can be a productive NHL player but I think that’s much less probably now that I thought it was coming into this season. He has NHL level skills, especially vision, passing and he thinks the game well. He reminds me of Teuvo with the ability to make the subtle little play/pass that springs a good play. He skates well enough but he isn’t exceptionally quick or fast and that’s a real problem for a guy weighing only around 165 lbs, and at 23 he probably isn’t going to get appreciably bigger naturally. Can he learn to be a more slippery player so he doesn’t get knocked off the puck so much? Hopefully yes, but I’m not counting on it.
Agree ER – the fact that Sikura is 23 is concerning but he could be a late developer physically – we can hope so because at the moment he doesn’t appear strong enough to handle the NHL game – we’ll see, not counting him out but like you not as optimistic as I once was
Wall the Canes likely still want move a defensemen in the summer, especially if they don’t at tdl. Flames have 3 D contracts up in summer of 20, might want to move one in the summer. Ducks hard to say may part with worth while candidate. Jets probably going move a defenseman for cap reasons. Never know might be a team wanting to move a Dman ahead of expansion draft, but may a year too early for any bites there.
Ian is right about teams moving defensemen, it is a timing issue.
This is exactly why Bowman or any GM worth his salt says a build process can’t be accomplished over one trade deadline, one free agency period, etc.
It is a process and patience is required.
Kampf out 3-4 weeks.
I think we need to limit our hopes of a top-tier defenseman coming to Chicago via free agency this summer. Please keep in mind that not only do the Hawks have veterans Keith, Seabrook, Murphy and Gustafsson signed thru next year, but the organization is also planning on Jokiharju, Boqvist, Beaudin, Carlsson (all signed) and Mitchell (college) being a part of the not-too-distant future. Blake Hillman, Dennis Gilbert and Joni Tuulola are players under contract for next year that probably have an NHL future as well. The Hawks should also be talking about extending Dahlström and Koekkoek in my opinion. As such, unless there are multiple deals made, the Blackhawks have… way too many bodies on the blue line already.
Agree totally Tab any deal would have to be the right deal. An expiring contract or moveable again with a team with Cap issues who want to move capspace for more cost friendly, future caphit. Without gutting the pipeline to do it.
The leading point getter among new acqusitions on teams rosters this season. Elias Lindholm of the Flames, ahead of Tavares. Neal the big sign there playing mostly 3rd line.
Ian, I presume you mean James Neal of the Calgary Flames.
The same James Neal who Calgary signed for five years $28.75 million for a cap hit of $5,750,000 yearly and is now 31.
The same James Neal who has contributed a whopping 5 goals and 13 points in 51 games this year.
The same James Neal who one poster here berated Bowman and the Blackhawks for not signing. Three guesses who that poster was, first two don’t count.
Also if LA did not get that many things, bs and luck and wrong rules/no instant replay to begin with, we would have won 4 Cups in 6 yrs. Goes that way to.
above cross bar goal/no veiew, offsides goal 3-3/no whistle, two penaltys broken stick? bad bounce goal. Any one/1 of those thing doesnt go LA we win Cup that yr to. There was a bunch of things in that one, not just on/1 thing, that we win Cup on that yr as well.
To me its about stacking the roster, again, for the 5 yrs after these 2yrs were in now. Then be better now-these 2yrs and not as good as we can make it for the 5 yrs after these 2 yrs.
I do not want to be just a top 10 team, when were deep again. We want to be a top 5 team and one of the two best teams for those 5 yrs and maybe longer. Its nice that BOS is back to a top 10 team but they arnt top 5 quality and even though they prob get close to borderline top 5 team status as their 5 really good young players get better/prime yr and recent top 5 teams come down some/NAS TAM TOR as they will have been there for at least 5-7 yrs of wearing themselves out every yr playoff wise and salary cap neutered.
I want us to stack it. Like trading 56 would be fine, when it brings good return. Paying our dues for these 2 yrs where in now, will bring good return and stack the roster better for the 5 yrs coming up.
2019 and 202- waste resources to still not be able to line up against NAS/WIN/CAL
2021-26 top 10 team and can win if enough things go right/garbage like PIT
or
2019 and 2020- reload pay dues, use resources to get better & moar players
2021-26 top 5 team and on some yrs-one of the two best teams again
Lol Row, that be him.
Indian, totally fine to double post. Not everyone reads the gazillion posts.
Wall, we looked at that beginning of season. Ian and others. Pretty much ufas wise only FW this summer and lots of them. The elite Defensemen were the two summer after this one. Be good to update that list and to make for the elc/rfa guys you could trade for.
Row, you must be so bored that you cannot even look up the easiest information about Tallon. Deal with it. Did you know he is fluent in French? Met him in the booth with Pat Foley when Savy’s number 18 was retired at the United Center in April of 1997!!! How long was he part of the organization? You said 4 yerars? That was funny. Like Richard Dawson on Family Feud, XXX! Look it up because you really sound well, forget it. Why continue, you will never answer any of those questions. I have been on the message board throughout the Hawk’s winning streak. Happy for the Kaner and Gustaf. Look that up at the same time as Tallon’s bio.
Hey, who did Bowman get for Dustin Buff? Forget it, too tough.
Carter Hart, when was he drafted? Forget it, too tough? Matt Murray? Forget it, too tough. How many points does Danault have and what is his face-off percentage? Is Weise still playing hockey with Fleishmann? Forget it, too tough. How many languages do you speak? Forget it, way too tough. I speak 4 by the way, thx!
I have answered and given my humble hockey opinion many times. Denial is your problem. Bowman did not win those Cups, tinkered here and there but he inherited 2, 7, 19, 88, 50, 4, 39, 23, 16, 33, 51, etc…
If you can’t handle the truth, then it’s okay, you can blah, blah, all you want.
I asked you a while back about Knott and Iacopelli? And you are excited about Cagg instead? Very funny! I respect 91 as a little player but again, maybe he can play on a 3rd line one day when the Hawks become a powerhouse. A GM’s job is maintenance with draft picks, prospects and free agent signings, right Row? Forget it, too tough for you to examine. Thus, when you win 3 cups with a Hall of fame core that you inherited, you need to add or replace players via your drafting, trades or free agent signings (not those undrafted ones by the way) that replace Sharp, Hossa, Richards, Saad, Panarin, Ladd, Buff, Bolland, Hammer, Crow (soon), Bickell, Teuvo, Shaw, Danault, Campbell, TVR, Leddy, Oduya, Frolic, Kopy, etc, etc, etc… So, if you simply sit back, then you will miss the playoffs while your stars are still in their prime. Maybe Bowman has no clue how to build or rebuild a team because he has never done that. Not his fault, he is an accountant, by the way. He can learn, right Row? Hey, he drafted the Cat and Schmaltz who is still a better hockey player than Strome, but he failed to realize all the quality forwards he lost that made it easy for Coach Q to play his style of hockey, puck possession. Drafting 4 dmen the last 2 years could have been 2 instead, again in my humble hockey opinion considering 2, 7, and 4 were still half of your d core.
Nothing wrong with Doug Wilson as a GM! Need to retire his number 24! It’s okay, Kahun will be out of the NHL very soon. And retire 28!
Let’s hope AA gets to Winnipeg by the trade deadline, he could help them if they don’t add a top 2 centre.
Like that Jets GM too!
Go Kane, go Hawks, Go Bobby Hull Jets!
How’s Broadhurst doing Row? Anthony Louis? Div 3 Pelletier? Edjsell? Forget it, too tough.
By the way, Gustaf was an Oiler’s draft pick. Happy for him, love his offensive IQ. Still needs to recognie his defensive responsabilities (like that McDavid rush, yikes)
And Row, love this legend Mikita guy you rave about. Once again, I have no idea who he or she is but you need to take a pill. Or contact this person.
91 19 88
20 15 24
12 17 88 (Helps JC)
14 16 40
2 7
63 5
65 56
Another thing thats going to make the coming yrs sweet is the new/should have been from the start of jersey contracts. Making the sweaters correct looking. Were fixing what should have been done right from the start of those contracts. Like with some teams going back to old routes with jersey designs for good vibes.
Were getting our old jerseys looking like they should and have always been, without that ball and chain collar wrapped around our necks.
Starting with the correct original jerseys, every yr from now were going to take it to another level and roster deeper and better each yr. Man I cant wait.
@ Hull65
“Row, you must be so bored that you cannot even look up the easiest information about Tallon. Deal with it.”
Are you legally retarded? I POSTED THE BIO INFO ON TALLON you dolt. You said he was the Blackhawks GM for a decade. He was NOT. He was Blackhawks GM for only four years. YOU GOT IT WRONG. Again.
Dale Tallon speaking French, as a matter of fact when Tallon first started as a broadcaster with the Blackhawks the broadcast perch was not far from where we sat. I took French for six years in school. I did speak to him a bit in French, he signed an autograph for me on a dollar bill which I still have. Sadly I do not speak French any longer. So yes, I do know about Dale Tallon, obviously more than you.
No you dolt, I did NOT say he was part of the Blackhawks organization for 10 years. YOU said he was the Blackhawks GM for a DECADE. I corrected you and showed you he was the Blackhawks GM for four years. You are really dumb. He was in the Blackhawks organization for many years, especially if you count his playing years. That was not the issue being discussed. YOU brought up how long Tallon was the GM, again you said A DECADE. It was NOT a decade and you were corrected. Can you not understand simple facts? I mean, how dumb are you?
You may speak four languages but you can’t comprehend English. You prove this every day.
I and others have told you again and again and again and again about the roster construction of the 2013 and 2015 Stanley Cup teams. The answers, which are truth, you choose not to accept. It is either because of your inability to understand the language or that you are just not that bright. Likely a combination of the two.
Go read the current thread. I have asked you again several questions which you continually refuse to answer. What are you afraid of? Are you afraid of being laughed at here? Don’t worry, it has already happened, you are laughed at daily.
“By the way, Gustaf was an Oiler’s draft pick. Happy for him, love his offensive IQ. Still needs to recognie his defensive responsabilities (like that McDavid rush, yikes)
And Row, love this legend Mikita guy you rave about. Once again, I have no idea who he or she is but you need to take a pill. Or contact this person.”
Who is Gustaf? Are you referring by chance to Gustav Forsling? If so you idiot he was NOT an Edmonton draft pick. He was drafted by Vancouver. CAN’T YOU GET ANYTHING RIGHT?
You are a liar in addition to being dense. You KNOW you were Makita21, Wraparound is correct. You changed to Hull65 because I am told someone pointed out you were spelling the last name “Mikita” incorrectly. You spelled it Makita because you are dumb. It was pointed out to you and you were embarrassed you didn’t know how to spell a Blackhawk legend’s name. You are a liar,
Now go read the current thread. There are several questions waiting for you that you continually avoid or move the goalposts. Any time you post nonsense, I will be right here to counterpoint and show your idiocy.
YOU LOSE. Will you be watching Welcome Back Kotter reruns tonight? Maybe you can finally grasp which character had the obnoxious laugh. Yet another thing you got wrong.
Go look up how long Tallon was the Blackhawks GM and see if it was a decade as you wrote, or whether it was a shorter duration as I wrote.
You lose. Again.