Chicago Blackhawks: 2017 Season Preview, Predictions

Offseason Review

If the Chicago Blackhawks offseason had a theme song, it would without question be Thin Lizzy’s “Boys Are Back In Town”. Because the Hawks are bringing back two forwards who helped them become a dynasty. Ironically, both left because of salary cap concerns.

Brandon Saad was a favorite of Toews. The center did extremely well with the two-way forward flanking him. Their chemistry is a huge reason they won the 2015 Stanley Cup. Toews went through a revolving door of young wings last season.

Perhaps Marian Hossa‘s allergy to hockey equipment forced the Blackhawks’ hand. Though Chicago lost Kane’s wingman in Panarin, the team has to be happy Saad’s back. In this trade, they also got Anton Forsberg, who hopes to replace Darling as Crawford’s backup.

Patrick Sharp is a legend in Chicago. Not just for his dashing looks and impeccable charisma, but for being a clutch player. Sharp scored countless huge goals for the Blackhawks from 2006 to 2015. After a stint with the Dallas Stars, he’s back. However, Sharp isn’t the same guy he was in 2015. His body has broken down a bit. But it never hurts to get back one of head coach Joel Quenneville‘s favorite players.

Hjalmarsson being traded for Murphy is a slightly baffling move. It wasn’t a cap move, as their cap hits are roughly similar. Also, Hjalmarsson was a very important stay at home defenseman for the Blackhawks. Murphy, thus far, has been decent in his NHL career, but that’s it.

The Blackhawks also brought in several depth forwards, with Lance Bouma and Tommy Wingels being the most notable.