Saw that tweet and agree. Panik stood at the high circle with Toews coming off the end wall with a few seconds left. I'm a Panik guy but I wonder if it's plays like that that had Babcock wondering about his awareness.

Also saw your tweet saying Franson has a booming shot but is no PP QB. Agree, his hands are stone in the open ice. Gonna be a lot of plays going the other way and loss off possession with him on an island at the Bline on the PP.

Many have wondered about Toews the last couple years. Wonder your thoughts on that? Lost a step, minutes have caught up to him, he's just not healthy anymore?
- Mr Ricochet

RE: Toews, he is not what he was from around the '08-'13 seasons, which is a lot of years and thousands of hard-played shifts.

Everyone remember this?

insane Toews goal

This was an exciting Toews.

I think we can all agree that he has declined from elite and his 10.5M contract, for what he brings is tough to swallow.

Toews has never been a Kane, jaw-dropping type player, but he frequently used to dominate games with his elite hockey IQ, clutch scoring and strength down low.

We have to accept that that Toews is going to be more sparse moving forward but his leadership and intangibles are undeniable.

The NHL has changed an insane amount in a short span to a faster-paced and young person's game, which has left Toews (and so, so many more vets wondering where the "good ol' days" of their career has gone).

Based on recently comments this off-season Toews has been very dedicated to become a "quicker" and craftier player. At times, I can see sings that his adjustments are paying off.

Toews is still a vital part to this Blackhawks team in 2017, but the type of player he nets out to be in the next few years could be interesting.

JL, you said earlier that there are a lot of things happening. Is this a trade you are hearing about from your sources? Also, just wondering if Detriot has interest in Debrincat, a local kid for them? You know, with the new stadium and all, might be interesting to bring him in for the locals.
- powerenforcer

That CHI/EDM swap was merely a theory. Not what I'm hearing.

From what I know, the Hawks are being patient with Debrincat. The fact that they are playing him a lot and Q is giving him a longer leash is proof. If they wanted to move him, they would be sheltering him a bit (probably in RFD) as he's not exactly "tearing" it up in the NHL right now.

On the flip side, if he was scoring at will in the NHL like he did in juniors (and they are putting him in position to succeed), then he would be a weapon for their offense and Stan would be blasted for moving him.

Now, with ALL that being said, if the right package comes around for ADB, I don't think they'll hesitate. I just don't think we see him moved anytime soon (if at all).

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.

RE: Toews, he is not what he was from around the '08-'13 seasons, which is a lot of years and thousands of hard-played shifts.

Everyone remember this?

insane Toews goal

This was an exciting Toews.

I think we can all agree that he has declined from elite and his 10.5M contract, for what he brings is tough to swallow.

Toews has never been a Kane, jaw-dropping type player, but he frequently used to dominate games with his elite hockey IQ, clutch scoring and strength down low.

We have to accept that that Toews is going to be more sparse moving forward but his leadership and intangibles are undeniable.

The NHL has changed an insane amount in a short span to a faster-paced and young person's game, which has left Toews (and so, so many more vets wondering where the "good ol' days" of their career has gone).

Based on recently comments this off-season Toews has been very dedicated to become a "quicker" and craftier player. At times, I can see sings that his adjustments are paying off.

Toews is still a vital part to this Blackhawks team in 2017, but the type of player he nets out to be in the next few years could be interesting.
- Justin Lowe

I was glad to see Toews “make a move” on Eliot on his goal instead of the usual half-slapper looking for a non-existent 5-hole on the breakaway.

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.
- Justin Lowe

You be you.

You be you.
- Ogilthorpe2

I agree with Ogi.

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.
- Justin Lowe

Welcome aboard JL.

I look forward to whatever you feel is necessary to share.
This is an extremely passionate fan base with many of us "Season Reservation Holders" (53 years and counting) here with a ton of hockey knowledge.

As you've probably already noticed, many of us will be questioning your sources on upcoming moves that can help keep the CUP window open. Please share anything you hear.

Though last night's W was a step in the right direction, if it weren't for Cory Crawford stopping breakaways and odd man breaks repeatedly, the score would have been much different. That game could have been disastrous early on.
I still saw way too much time and space given to the Flyers and the best scoring chances were significantly better from them.

The Wild will be a tough one Saturday night and a good gauge to where they are after last night's Win.

Good Luck in your new role.

That CHI/EDM swap was merely a theory. Not what I'm hearing.

From what I know, the Hawks are being patient with Debrincat. The fact that they are playing him a lot and Q is giving him a longer leash is proof. If they wanted to move him, they would be sheltering him a bit (probably in RFD) as he's not exactly "tearing" it up in the NHL right now.

On the flip side, if he was scoring at will in the NHL like he did in juniors (and they are putting him in position to succeed), then he would be a weapon for their offense and Stan would be blasted for moving him.

Now, with ALL that being said, if the right package comes around for ADB, I don't think they'll hesitate. I just don't think we see him moved anytime soon (if at all).
- Justin Lowe

If I may be allowed to read between the lines of your synopsis about Toews and DeBrincat, then I am merely adding to the solid read you portray of the changes at centreice and the sort of stagnant but not stink of a situation it all has become.

The Blackhawks are not strong at centreice. They are actually in transition. How will two underside centers turn out. Can they field the best lineup with two offensive not physical centers. They can.....if BOTH do no revert to deer in the headlights or avoid physical confrontations quite often.

No, we do not expect them to be flailing away among larger size players. But you have to compete and make a play, not be scared. Otherwise you are toast and maybe the AHL or third line is your future. I do see that TT has been called very good in his role this year. Yes, nice to have such skill in the bottom six, along with Kruger and Nordstrom.

Anyway, I suggest Bowman knows what his team needs ...needs ultimately. Nice to bring in a power forward or someone who might become the leader on defense. But if Chicago is to be a power, a first round playoff winner, too, then it is much more likely to happen when someone new is the bona fide #1 center. That player is not yet here. On the horizon? Dk. How might they draft or trade. Dk.

I hear ya.

You know what would be interesting would be a swap of former line mates (obviously not 1-for-1 but some variation) :

Debrincat to EDM to play with McJesus

Drake Caggiula to CHI to play with Schmalz


Caggiula, Schmaltz and Brock Boeser (VAN prospect) were an electric line for U of ND a couple years ago when they won the D-1 Championship.


#justsaying
- Justin Lowe

I’d rather not trade Schmaltz, but I could see the Canucks wanting him. But I don’t really know if Vancouver has anything worth while. I’d love to land Horvat, but I don’t see that happening.

Hi Justine glad to see ya step right in .. Last nights game was not a lot to get over excited about ,HAWKS had a little more jump .Maybe Q running a real practice for the 1st time in forever Helped !! .Still think the lines are off . Would like to see DBC with AA and Kane ,he needs that big man and set up man to work off IMO .Panick with Towes and Saad will do just fine given time . Then Hartman Schmaltz and Vinny ,they played well last year during the HAWKS best run ,till the IL faded Jurco trade . Then U have Sharp Hayden Winngles ,could give U some offence and be tough to play against . Just my two cents and that is about all it worth .. Crow was the show again last night ..
- oldduffman

Geez Oldduffman! Maybe give the guy a day or two before you start in on him.

I agree with Ogi.
- StLBravesFan

yeah, make it work for you and the product will be better for everyone.

Justine just be your own self do what you think you should as time goes on you will get a feel what works and what doesn t with this group of hawk fanatics. This question is for you Justin are trade rumors heating up with the hawks and if so with what teams or is all quiet and wait and see? Second is Q on the hot seat seeing that the hawks are a .500 team and are struggling? Thanks look forward to your feedback.

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.
- Justin Lowe

Personally I'd prefer a game day blog. Take into account any line-up changes that may be known at the time.

Welcome Justin (I know, late to the welcome wagon . . . ),
Best wishes on the new gig, lots and lots of really crazy Hawks fans.

This just in: Jonathan Toews to star as ICHABOD CRANE in the new Broadway run of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."

(Did anyone see the interviews w/19 after the game? If the guy doesn't look "right" I'll eat my hat -- gaunt, eyes/cheeks sunken in a bit, dark around the eyes -- heck, even his once-broad shoulders and neck looked like they had been on a year-long diet. Going back to the Bickell era when as a group we bashed him because he couldn't stay up on his skates and there were jokes about getting his skates sharpened, walking on concrete before a game and him being tipsy -- sure hope we don't have a similar situation with our captain. It's one thing to have lost your mojo/dynamic love for the game, quite another when not only time but health causes it. I wish no bad on the guy and I think we can all say hope he's healthy and doing the right things to be what he once was wearing the Chicago sweater.)

Damn more Toews bashing. I get that is the new thing, but can we at least refrain from it when he actually plays a good game? He was very good against Philly, better than most forwards and his line came very close to scoring 3-4 goals, they were dominant in the offensive zone at times, especially as the game wore on.

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.
- Justin Lowe

Whatever works best for you is fine with me. Great 1st blog!

Damn more Toews bashing. I get that is the new thing, but can we at least refrain from it when he actually plays a good game? He was very good against Philly, better than most forwards and his line came very close to scoring 3-4 goals, they were dominant in the offensive zone at times, especially as the game wore on.
- kwolf68

He was just "OK" in my book.
Took 2 lazy penalties and if not for Crawford shutting the door on every chance, would not have looked quite that good.

I've taken to watching him as much as humanly possible when he takes a shift. As much as guys want to bash Schmaltz, I saw several shifts where #19 was behind the play and didn't make very much of an effort to defend. Noticed that in particular at least twice right in front of Crawford.

He was better but certainly not great. Just doesn't look right to me. Even from his post-game interviews, appears to have lost "the fire" and that's what I am seeing on the ice.

Geez Oldduffman! Maybe give the guy a day or two before you start in on him.
- HawkintheD

"Justine"... ha.. I've heard worse.

yeah, make it work for you and the product will be better for everyone.
- matt_ahrens

Thanks for the feedback everyone.

Part of who I am is being extremely personable and accommodating, so prepare yourself for more questions on how to take this blog and our community to the next level. So, I really appreciate everyone being open.

I will take any and all info you guys toss my way to make it as enjoyable as possible for you cats.

Welcome Justin (I know, late to the welcome wagon . . . ),
Best wishes on the new gig, lots and lots of really crazy Hawks fans.

This just in: Jonathan Toews to star as ICHABOD CRANE in the new Broadway run of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."

(Did anyone see the interviews w/19 after the game? If the guy doesn't look "right" I'll eat my hat -- gaunt, eyes/cheeks sunken in a bit, dark around the eyes -- heck, even his once-broad shoulders and neck looked like they had been on a year-long diet. Going back to the Bickell era when as a group we bashed him because he couldn't stay up on his skates and there were jokes about getting his skates sharpened, walking on concrete before a game and him being tipsy -- sure hope we don't have a similar situation with our captain. It's one thing to have lost your mojo/dynamic love for the game, quite another when not only time but health causes it. I wish no bad on the guy and I think we can all say hope he's healthy and doing the right things to be what he once was wearing the Chicago sweater.)
- savvyone-1

Thanks Savvy!

RE: Toews, he is not what he was from around the '08-'13 seasons, which is a lot of years and thousands of hard-played shifts.

Everyone remember this?

insane Toews goal

This was an exciting Toews.

I think we can all agree that he has declined from elite and his 10.5M contract, for what he brings is tough to swallow.

Toews has never been a Kane, jaw-dropping type player, but he frequently used to dominate games with his elite hockey IQ, clutch scoring and strength down low.

We have to accept that that Toews is going to be more sparse moving forward but his leadership and intangibles are undeniable.

The NHL has changed an insane amount in a short span to a faster-paced and young person's game, which has left Toews (and so, so many more vets wondering where the "good ol' days" of their career has gone).

Based on recently comments this off-season Toews has been very dedicated to become a "quicker" and craftier player. At times, I can see sings that his adjustments are paying off.

Toews is still a vital part to this Blackhawks team in 2017, but the type of player he nets out to be in the next few years could be interesting.
- Justin Lowe

By my count nearly 900 games of the highest level hockey that can be played including Olympics and World Cups, most of which was winning and accumulating the bumps and bruises that go with it.

I don't know what sparse means but on this board a dozen or 20 below average games gets a player reclassified as a f'n retread and somebody that should be traded for next to nothing immediately to acquire that smooth skating thing called cap space.

#19 may play out the rest of his career at a significantly lower level who knows, but I'd remind you that Sidney Crosby was essentially written off as finished while he had major concussion issues, and other very good players from earlier eras were very effective (Bryan Trottier and Yzerman to name 2) after down periods.

But of course fan bases gravite to the shiny new toys like McDavid, Matthews, Draistal, Laine etc. And my answer is always, what the f$ck have they ever won? Our guy has those skins on the wall, maybe he just needs his battery re-charged like a lot of human beings. Of course that requires patience and waiting to see, but nobody time for that logic.

Justine just be your own self do what you think you should as time goes on you will get a feel what works and what doesn t with this group of hawk fanatics. This question is for you Justin are trade rumors heating up with the hawks and if so with what teams or is all quiet and wait and see? Second is Q on the hot seat seeing that the hawks are a .500 team and are struggling? Thanks look forward to your feedback.
- Scott1977

Cheers Scott!

Not hearing anything on the trade front right now. Then again, I'm still in the process in making some fresh rounds with my contacts so we'll see.

My take is that the Hawks know they can stay above average until they get some of these coaching adjustments made and new players adapted. From there, they are looking to take it up a notch to get rolling and see if they can make another (or a better) run.

If they lose control into a massive slump, then a deal will be made. If they keep their head above water in the West then they will keep that Hossa "slush fund" rolling in the background.

I'll always keep you guys posted though when I hear a peep from my people.

JL, you said earlier that there are a lot of things happening. Is this a trade you are hearing about from your sources? Also, just wondering if Detriot has interest in Debrincat, a local kid for them? You know, with the new stadium and all, might be interesting to bring him in for the locals.
- powerenforcer

Debrincat is no more of a draw to Detroit locals than Hinostroza, Hartman, Louis, etc. are as drawing cards for the Blackhawks.

He is just not that type of player. Guys like McDavid, Matthews, Eichel, etc. are drawing cards. A guy like Toews would be up in Winnipeg. Debrincat may turn into a very solid player, but until he starts potting 30+ goals a year he isn't gonna put any significant amount of butts in the seats, even in his home town.

Quick Question fam - when the Hawks play on Saturday or Sunday, would you prefer that I:

A) put out a blog on Friday to set you up for the weekend?

B) post on game day to get you set for the game?

C) all of the above because you a thirsty for Blackhawks content 24/7?



Talk to me.
- Justin Lowe

i myself prefer a blog with some meat on the bone prior to the game (either day is fine). blogs with a regurgitation of lines and little else are useless - we can get that on twitter from the lame hawk media contingent. all I got and welcome to the family Justin!!!!

I agree with Ogi.
- StLBravesFan

same here, your call