The Chicago Blackhawks are close to wrapping up their offseason business, but there are still a few things left to attend to in the coming weeks. In the meantime, let’s take a look at some notable updates and developments from the team.
Connor Bedard, one of the Blackhawks’ top prospects, recently spoke to the media during development camp. Two things stood out about Bedard: his comfort with the attention he receives and his passion for the game. Despite being just 17 years old, Bedard handles the spotlight well and reminds everyone that he’s still a normal person. He’s excited to get back on the ice after a long break and is looking forward to the upcoming season.
Another prospect, Samuel Savoie, is the only CHL player from the 2022 draft without a contract. When asked about it, Savoie expressed that he’s not worried and trusts that the Blackhawks will make the right decision. The team is reportedly high on Savoie’s abilities and hopes to sign him soon. However, Savoie needs to work on toeing the line better, as he accumulated a high number of penalty minutes last season.
The Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase, which was previously a two-team event, will now include the St. Louis Blues alongside the Blackhawks and Minnesota Wild. This expansion reflects the growing interest and importance of prospect development in the NHL. It’s likely that Bedard will participate in the showcase, further showcasing his skills and potential.
Former Blackhawks player Johnny Oduya praised the team’s decision to hold their development camp off-ice. He believes that focusing on more than just on-ice skills is crucial for players’ long-term growth and success. Oduya even proposed teaching breathing techniques to help prospects manage their emotions and anxiety during games and practices.
In terms of contract negotiations, Philipp Kurashev has a scheduled arbitration case on July 20. While most cases are resolved before they reach arbitration, time is running out for the Blackhawks to reach an agreement with Kurashev. It’s a contract that Blackhawks’ President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Stan Bowman wants to get right, even with ample cap space available.
As for potential roster additions, the Blackhawks may still add a veteran defenseman, but it’s unlikely to happen in the near future. The team wants to evaluate their current players and provide opportunities for young defensemen during preseason games.
The Blackhawks have made some changes in their amateur scouting department. They recently hired Cal Filson as an amateur scout, who previously served as the director of player personnel for the Seattle Thunderbirds. Rod Braceful, on the other hand, left the Blackhawks to become the director of player personnel for the U.S. National Team Development Program.
In other job news, the Blackhawks posted an opening for a data scientist in hockey analytics. This indicates the team’s commitment to utilizing advanced analytics in their decision-making process. They also recently hired Dave Radke as a senior research scientist in the department, further strengthening their analytics capabilities.
Finally, here’s a look at where the Blackhawks’ 2023 draft picks are expected to play this season:
– Connor Bedard: NHL, Blackhawks
– Oliver Moore: NCAA, Minnesota
– Adam Gajan: USHL, Green Bay Gamblers
– Roman Kantserov: KHL, Metallurg Magnitogorsk
– Martin Misiak: OHL, Erie Otters
– Nick Lardis: OHL, Brantford Bulldogs
– Jiri Felcman: U-20 Elit, Langnau U-20
– Alex Pharand: OHL, Sudbury Wolves
– Marcel Marcel: QMJHL, Gatineau Olympiques
– Milton Oscarson: SHL, Orebro
– Janne Peltonen: Liiga, Karpa
With the offseason business almost wrapped up, the Blackhawks are gearing up for the upcoming season. Fans can expect an exciting mix of established players and promising prospects as the team looks to make a strong comeback.