Blackhawks Show Signs of Life (Weekly Rebuild Roundup 1)

It's important to analyze and evaluate large-scale decisions—such as an organizational rebuild of the Blackhawks—from a basis of periodization. «Baby steps», as I'd like to put it. A goal without a plan is simply a dream, and the most efficient method to develop a plan is to dissect and reverse-engineer the goal itself.

The Blackhawks' most important goal (I hope) is to be in the «cup contenders» group within the next three or four years—but how is this attainable? How are we able to measure it on a month-by-month basis? Is it a realistic goal? These are questions yet to be answered and likely won't be until next season, but it doesn't hurt to start tracking it now. That's my goal in beginning this Weekly Rebuild Roundup and ideally can help paint a clearer picture of "little things" each week that may have large implications on the future of this team.

This week, I want to focus on the ‘Hawks finally breaking out of their 8-game losing streak and playing what I consider is «winning hockey.» After losing against the likes of BUF, ARI, and SEA over the course of their nearly 10-game skid, and playing with absolutely no interest or will to win, they finally pulled out a victory agains the San Jose Sharks on Thursday (4/14). Albeit in the shootout, DeBrincat was able to lead the team to their first victory in, *checks notes*, THREE weeks—nothing to necessarily brag about, but a W is a W.

Furthermore, in yesterday's game against Nashville (4/16), there was a noticeable and impactful difference in the on-ice product. They were rolling four lines, playing with cohesion, and not stuck in their own zone for 40 minutes of game time. Yes, they fell short and lost the game 3-4, but Nashville is on fire as of late and to play the type of game that Chicago did was impressive in itself.


Stepping back from individual games, the young guns are finally starting to show up. Reese Johnson is hitting anyone and everyone that moves on the ice, Riley Stillman notched a nice tuck against Nashville, and Lukas Reichel has FINALLY recorded his first NHL point. This is why the end of the season isn't a «waste», and although it seems insignificant today, this development could pay off large dividends moving forward.

Last thing of note, it's become immensely clear that the Blackhawks may not have much in Kevin Lankinen long-term, and it seems Drew Commesso will need at least another two or three years before jumping into NHL action. What this means, I'm not so sure. But I figure the Blackhawks may want to invest in a mid-tier goalie to help at least share the heavy load with Lankinen.

I look forward to keeping this weekly series going until I can change the name to «Pushing for Playoffs Weekly Update», but I infer we are at least a few years away from that privilege. Unfortunately being a fan isn't always exhilarating, but frankly getting through the darkest times makes for the highest highs. Don't give up or tune out, just stay involved, enjoy the little things, and encourage others to do the same!