Theo Fox: Game 9: Hawks 1, Jackets 2
A recap of the Blackhawks loss to the Blue Jackets where Lankinen again stood tall but the team failed to connect on prime scoring chances.

Also, more glimmers of hope on the blueline with steady play by the young D in Beaudin, Carlsson, and Mitchell.

First!

Great write-up as always Theo!!

So now Hawks are defensive team?!?

First!

Great write-up as always Theo!!

So now Hawks are defensive team?!?
- theneek

Thanks, theneek.

If the Hawks can rebuild from the defense out, then that is the start of a good recipe.

Really liking Mitchell and Beaudin. Both are intelligent all-around players who care about defending. Kalynuk fits this mold, too.

Carlsson is a battler who can also be part of a mobile defense that carries the mail. Krys is emerging to be somewhere between Carlsson and the aforementioned trio.

Of course, Boqvist has top-shelf talent but just needs to gain more strength and play smart at both ends.

The one to watch further down the D pipeline is 2020 draft pick Kaiser.

Theo's review of the young Blackhawk dmen is quite encouraging. The most rationale hope for first a .500 record, and next qualifying for the playoffs, lies in a significant development of the young defensemen.

Solid effort and challenging the puck carrier was demonstrated tonight by those dmen. Eventually Zadorov must make better decisions or he is not going to stick around. Zadorov provides intimidation and his style usually will stop the opponent from mugging us with no regard for a pummeling in response.

The young dmen are going to be a real treat to watch once they display their offensive ability. This is the next step or hurdle in major development. At this point the expect a growth in confidance and know how is emerging.

I truly believe Bowman's plan is to move young dmen in as much as possible and keep bringing in more if them until enough young dmen become the backbone of the team

Bowman might just have acceptable goaltending with Laakinen and Subban. We have the remainder if this season to decide at least whether Laakinen is our goaltender for the next few years. A decision on whether to draft a netminder with a first round choice might be affected by Laakinen's string play

I am extremely hopeful that the pieces to form a shut down L3 & L4 is in the Blackhawks pipeline. A L4 could also be an energy line. In breaking down the merit of L3& L4, i am unsure if there exists a too face off artist since I do not want Kampf on the team Kamof is a good player, but I want someone whom has more to offer offensively

Barret is on to keep an eye on. Not just if his skating is an issue. Perhaps the skating is not too good but also not as lumbersome as Strome. I would like Barret's game to shine at the NHL level, especially his mouth which can get under the skin of an opponent

So we could be looking at a puck moving and responsible defense with strong bottom two lines. Skating ability, toughness and compete level would be plentiful on L #3 & 4.

What Bowman plucks with the next two first round choices is going to be telltale as final pieces to augment the rest if the team (which i have just described). It would be among shot to be in position to select the best player in the 2021 draft. Which means winning the draft lottery. And selecting the bug talented dman everyone covets.

I am hopeful that Bowman takes a center or forward and in fa t this is what I expect for the 2021 draft.

Unfortunately I do not expect that Bowman can extract another first round choice when he trades two or more veteran dmen - done incremental steps.

Because of some restrictions regarding player contracturial terms, Keith and Seabrook likely stay while Murphy and deHahn depart. ,adorov may not be theong term answer, either, but it is difficult for me to subtract him soon as I prefer the you g dmen have a protector.

In a long term outlook regarding dmen prospects whom are not yet close to NHL, I am guessing each of Kyrs,Galvas, and Kaiser (the freshman kid Theo mentioned) have an NHL ceiling. Not sure on a couple others, maybe Rogula but question Vlasic

This may have been their best game 5x5 of the 9 - even tho they couldn’t get one in.

Too many shots blocked (18) and missed (8), and Korpisalo made several nice saves.

But the transition was better and there was actually a forecheck, altho still too many long stretch passes that miss and short passes in the neutral zone that were enough off target to slow or stop the rush and entry. Even Kane seemed to be putting more that the usual number of passes into white-sweltered sticks and skates.

But improvement - hope that with time and experience playing with each other (again nine skaters who weren’t around last season). It’s a process learning where teammates still strangers to each other will be on the ice.

The fourth line - lots of great zone time and puck possession, to no apparent purpose - including Highmore - one goal for Carpenter, one assist each for Hagel and Kampf - that’s it. Excellent numbers, excellent visuals, to no apparent purpose. I know - they keep the puck away from the opposition and their own goalie - but in 9 games, more production would be nice.

And 11+7 should probably end....

Thanks, theneek.

If the Hawks can rebuild from the defense out, then that is the start of a good recipe.

Really liking Mitchell and Beaudin. Both are intelligent all-around players who care about defending. Kalynuk fits this mold, too.

Carlsson is a battler who can also be part of a mobile defense that carries the mail. Krys is emerging to be somewhere between Carlsson and the aforementioned trio.

Of course, Boqvist has top-shelf talent but just needs to gain more strength and play smart at both ends.

The one to watch further down the D pipeline is 2020 draft pick Kaiser.
- Theo Fox

Got him in the 3rd and everything I've read on him suggests he already is a very defensively responsible player with good wheels. The one thing he doesn't have in his game is offense according to scouting reports but they suggest there's some in him.

Glad to see Beaudin and Carlsson having a coule of decent games. I wouldl like to see them stay in the lineup when Boqvist gets off the Covid list. But that would mean Boqvist observing from the press box stunting his development or going to Rockford.

The best option IMO would be to sit Zadorov, but that wouldn't make Stan look good. Does JC have the gonads to do that?

This may have been their best game 5x5 of the 9 - even tho they couldn’t get one in.

Too many shots blocked (18) and missed (8), and Korpisalo made several nice saves.

But the transition was better and there was actually a forecheck, altho still too many long stretch passes that miss and short passes in the neutral zone that were enough off target to slow or stop the rush and entry. Even Kane seemed to be putting more that the usual number of passes into white-sweltered sticks and skates.

But improvement - hope that with time and experience playing with each other (again nine skaters who weren’t around last season). It’s a process learning where teammates still strangers to each other will be on the ice.

And 11+7 should probably end....
- StLBravesFan

Not a fan of the 11F and 7D either, but at least it's getting Beaudin and Carlsson 10-12 minutes of ice time in a real game. Also, the addition of Highmore or Entwistle isn't going to increase the goal production. I'd rather see the young D-men get some game experience. Anyway, probably just a few more games of the 11 and 7 lineup until Cat is available.

Nice recap Theo. It looks like at this time that Highmore is not highly thought of by the organIzation. So what would a package of de Haan and Highmore bring back? I’d like for them to add a pick(s) or a young forward.

IDK, I only saw 2/3 of the game, but I thought Zadorov was the Hawks best defenseman. But I get it, it is against the narrative that if Stan trades a favorite, that whoever the Hawks get back is no good. (Murphy, Nylander, now Zadorof). Although not necessarily traded for a favorite, I would classify Strome in that camp as well.

I know alot of us had concerns regarding the goalie position. Just watching Lankinen the past several games I think we have our goalie for the future that's only going to get better. Great write up Theo really appreciate your writing skills.

Nice recap Theo. It looks like at this time that Highmore is not highly thought of by the organIzation. So what would a package of de Haan and Highmore bring back? I’d like for them to add a pick(s) or a young forward.
- Angotti

I don't see anyone taking DeHann with another year owing on his contract. If he stays healthy through next season, then, yes, he would have some value at that TDL as he is still relatively young.
The Highmore situation is puzzling especially since we are short one forward.

IDK, I only saw 2/3 of the game, but I thought Zadorov was the Hawks best defenseman. But I get it, it is against the narrative that if Stan trades a favorite, that whoever the Hawks get back is no good. (Murphy, Nylander, now Zadorof). Although not necessarily traded for a favorite, I would classify Strome in that camp as well.
- LAHawk

Thought Zadorov played much better last night as well.

As I've said before, not sure what the problem people have with Strome. Think he is playing well, and creating chances. And at a pretty reasonable contract.

I guess Highmore is out beause of 7D, but not sure why he is an issue. I would move Hagel up off the 4th line, and play Highmore on the 4th.

I don't see anyone taking DeHann with another year owing on his contract. If he stays healthy through next season, then, yes, he would have some value at that TDL as he is still relatively young.
The Highmore situation is puzzling especially since we are short one forward.
- 67hawks

I think they will put all four defenders ias their expansion option.

We cam wiz and moan and talk decline in rhyme about Keith and deHaan but they can play.

Bowman plans to keep running kids on defenseand if one doesn't become good enough, he is moved and another mid comes along.

The seven dmen is just baby steps and next is if some kids can develoo while playing more TOI. The defense is to become the backbone of a puck advance/possession with all good to above avg skaters. The nucleus for this approach is in the pipeline, most already here.

A big question is if they win the draft lottery then they have to take the big size collegiate coveted kid. Otherwise probably a forward & hopefully a center

The L3/4 stock is most part here or in the pipeline. The goaltending looks like it could be adequate with Laakinen. Either Subban or some cheap veteran will hold the fort for couple seasons.

Maybe Toews is on leave and won't need to be protected should a doctor report
he has an ongoing medical issue being physical or mental which prevents him from playing for at least the following season predicated upon finding a solution for recovery

Seabrook or Carlsson is the fourth dman if none of the dmen is traded.

IDK, I only saw 2/3 of the game, but I thought Zadorov was the Hawks best defenseman. But I get it, it is against the narrative that if Stan trades a favorite, that whoever the Hawks get back is no good. (Murphy, Nylander, now Zadorof). Although not necessarily traded for a favorite, I would classify Strome in that camp as well.
- LAHawk

With Z and Murphy, hell with most dmen what i see is the better the opponents team forecheck, the harder it is for Murphy and Z to pass the puck. With the rookie defenders they can make a good pass but they struggle recognizing even if the guy looks open he really isn't and that should come with more experience.
Wonder if that might of looked different if Dubois was still on the team and playing to his best ability.

Theo Fox: Game 9: Hawks 1, Jackets 2
A recap of the Blackhawks loss to the Blue Jackets where Lankinen again stood tall but the team failed to connect on prime scoring chances.

Also, more glimmers of hope on the blueline with steady play by the young D in Beaudin, Carlsson, and Mitchell.
- Theo Fox

My issue with Strome is he coasts back on defense a lot, he sure does pump them legs when they have possession, and i really hope he begins to do the same when he or his teammates don't have the puck.

If i was JC I'd have the video guy just follow Hagel on every shift. Then i would just have all the forwards sit and watch.l him and his effort every shift

Hawks cancel practice over “abundance of caution”. Wonder if more guys hit with Covid. Story on NBC Sports Chicago.

Thought Zadorov played much better last night as well.

As I've said before, not sure what the problem people have with Strome. Think he is playing well, and creating chances. And at a pretty reasonable contract.

I guess Highmore is out beause of 7D, but not sure why he is an issue. I would move Hagel up off the 4th line, and play Highmore on the 4th.
- vabeachbear

Some including me don’t think he will make a good 3rd line center when we get Toews and Dach back. We are looking for a 3rd line center that can be a shut down guy with some offense, Strome’s lack of speed is a deterrent to that role. Does he bring hockey IQ and hands? Yes, can he be a decent 2nd line center on a good team? Not sure, can he be a #1 or #2 center on a bad team?Probably, just my $0.02..

I know alot of us had concerns regarding the goalie position. Just watching Lankinen the past several games I think we have our goalie for the future that's only going to get better. Great write up Theo really appreciate your writing skills.
- BGKarras

Love your optimism but we'll need quite a few more games before we declare anyone the goalie of the future. Remember Andrew Hammond with the Sens in 14/15?

But I get your point, Lankinen has been impressive and has provided some home for between the pipes. Let's hope Subban keeps his progression going too.

Got him in the 3rd and everything I've read on him suggests he already is a very defensively responsible player with good wheels. The one thing he doesn't have in his game is offense according to scouting reports but they suggest there's some in him.
- HawkintheD

From what I've seen and read so far in his freshman NCAA season, Kaiser's offense is improving. He moves the puck quickly and can wire shots from the point.

Kaiser has been on the top pair at Minnesota-Duluth for all but I think one game. Plays PP1 and on the PK.

While defense will be his strong suit, I don't think offense will hinder his ability to develop into at least a pretty good 4/5/6 blueliner. He already has pro-caliber skating.

Some including me don’t think he will make a good 3rd line center when we get Toews and Dach back. We are looking for a 3rd line center that can be a shut down guy with some offense, Strome’s lack of speed is a deterrent to that role. Does he bring hockey IQ and hands? Yes, can he be a decent 2nd line center on a good team? Not sure, can he be a #1 or #2 center on a bad team?Probably, just my $0.02..
- Angotti

I would say we are just looking for good hockey players. Toews is a very good overall player. Dach looks like he is moving in that same direction. If you have those two plus Strome (who has improved his overall game a bit) I don't see the problem at all. You don't need to use the same formula as 2010 to win. I would say you need as much depth scoring as possible while having everyone committed to structural defense. Not everyone is going to (or can) be an all around player, but if you find a center that continually puts up 0.75PPG and is not a detriment to the D, I say you keep him. We have plenty of guys that aren't all that prolific scoring.

I used to think Strome was less than desirable. Thus far he has shown to be more aggressive and seems to have put in the work to be more effective. is he a #1C? probably not, but he definitely fills a need.

Nice recap Theo. It looks like at this time that Highmore is not highly thought of by the organIzation. So what would a package of de Haan and Highmore bring back? I’d like for them to add a pick(s) or a young forward.
- Angotti

Thanks, Angotti.

If a de Haan + Highmore trade was on the table, I'm thinking the return would need to take salary back so likely not draft picks or prospects unless the Hawks took back more salary than what goes out.

Just a guess. Never been good at estimating trades.

Nice recap Theo. It looks like at this time that Highmore is not highly thought of by the organIzation. So what would a package of de Haan and Highmore bring back? I’d like for them to add a pick(s) or a young forward.
- Angotti

It wouldn't bring back much Highmore's are a dime a dozen every team has them in their system you're really only trading deHaan.

It wouldn't bring back much Highmore's are a dime a dozen every team has them in their system you're really only trading deHaan.
- rpeters01

Tyler Motte
Tanner Kero
Ryan Hartman
Marko Dano?
etc.
etc.
etc.