So why not surround them with veterans that can help and teach them? There are three notable wingers left in free agency that Chicago can go out and get.
James van Riemsdyk, a former second overall pick in 2007 by the Philadelphia Flyers, is 35 years old. At a league minimum deal for this year, he could be a pretty good get. Last season with the Boston Bruins, he had 11 goals and 27 assists, adding up to 38 points in 71 games.
Mike Hoffman is 34 years old and played for the San Jose Sharks last year. Hoffman only had 23 points in 66 games last season, but could be a good locker room leader and could be contributing on the fourth line. Plus, you could always scratch him every game or two if need be.
Kevin Labanc had a really rough 2023-24 campaign. Labanc only had nine points in 46 games with a whopping -27 last place Sharks team. However, he's shown he can play in the past, with one 40-point season in 2017 and one 56-point season in 2018. While not necessarily a veteran at only 28, maybe all he needs is another team to get going again.
Credit: YardBarker
POLL | ||
11 AOUT | 61 ANSWERS Three wingers that the Blackhawks can get in free agency Should the Blackhawks claim all 3? | ||
Yes | 37 | 60.7 % |
No | 24 | 39.3 % |
List of polls |