Chicago Blackhawks season preview
The Chicago Blackhawks’ decision to tank in the 2022-23 season paid dividends, as they were the lucky organization that won the 2023 Draft Lottery. The fortunate ping-pong ball allowed them to snag generational talent Connor Bedard as the first overall pick. The hope is that Bedard can help turn the ship around in Chicago, but this won’t be an overnight solution. They’ve taken some positive steps, but I still think the Blackhawks will struggle yet again this season.
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Offense
Chicago was far and away the worst offensive team in the NHL last season. The team finished at the bottom of the league in multiple categories, including goals for per 60 minutes, high-danger chances per 60, and scoring chances per 60. This team is completely rebuilding and looking to bring in pieces that can surround Bedard. In addition to drafting the young phenom, the Blackhawks added Taylor Hall, Nick Foligno, Corey Perry, and Ryan Donato.
These additions are positive but might not be enough to make the team that much better offensively. Last season’s Blackhawks finished with the second-fewest shots on goal per game (27.0) and their power play finished toward the bottom as well, as it only converted at a 16.4% rate. They’re going to be a fun team to watch because of the hype around Bedard, but finding offensive success might take some time. They should finish toward the bottom of the league yet again.
Defense
Outside of Seth Jones, there isn’t too much on Chicago’s blue line to get excited about. They struggled mightily in their defensive zone last season, and I suspect they will have similar issues again this year. Chicago didn’t make any moves this offseason to strengthen their blue line, so it can be assumed that the team will finish toward the bottom of the league in defensive metrics. The Blackhawks finished towards the bottom of the league in high-danger chances against per 60 minutes, goals against per 60, as well as expected goals against per 60.
Goaltending
Chicago has a ton of weaknesses on their roster, but goaltending might be the biggest crutch. The Blackhawks allowed a total of 301 goals last season, which was tied for the fifth-most in the league, and their -97 goal differential was the third-worst in the NHL. Petr Mrazek saw most of the action, appearing in 38 games and finishing with a 10-22-3 record, an .894 save percentage, and a 3.66 goals against average. His -6.3 goals saved above expected ranked 90th among goalies.
Arvid Soderblom will begin as Mrazek’s backup, but the team used six different netminders last year, so I don’t think his job is safe. Mrazek will take most of the grunt work in goal again, and I don’t expect many wins out of him this season because of the team in front of him.
Player To Watch – F Connor Bedard
Bedard hasn’t even set foot in an NHL game yet and the kid is already a league celebrity. The hype is warranted. There haven’t been expectations this high for a rookie since Connor McDavid in 2015. Bedard put up some ridiculous numbers in junior hockey that should be able to translate to the pros, but that also comes with a lot of pressure. His team might not be one of the league’s best, but this kid is going to be a joy to watch.
Outlook
Outside of Connor Bedard, the expectations aren’t very high for Chicago this season. I think they’ll finish last in the division again because of their defense and goaltending.
