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Forums :: Blog World :: Justin Lowe: LIVE BLOG: Blackhawks Draft Day
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jjtoepfer
New Jersey Devils
Location: Chicago, IL
Joined: 01.21.2011

Jun 22 @ 3:18 PM ET
CHI Get:
Cory Schneider
Michael McLeod
2nd round pick (2019)

NJD Get:
Alex DeBrincat
Marian Hossa
3rd round pick (2018)

Doubt you'd be willing to unload DeBrincat but it's all in good fun.
Theo Fox
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.18.2016

Jun 22 @ 3:21 PM ET
I don’t think we need 2, I think 1 will suffice.

I’m probably in the minority but I really, really believe that Gus will continue to develop and become an important part of this organization as Q begins to hopefully trust him more and let him make his mistakes.

If he’s given 75+ games next season, I think 35 points is a realistic target for him. He’s one of the better passers on the team and I liked the way his shot came along as the year went on and became more confident in it.

Rutta I think can have a solid year too since he’s adjusted to the NA ice, has a complete summer under his belt, and Q deploys him properly.

Big step ups this season from those two will go a long way.

Keith - _____
Goose - Seabs
Rutta - Murphy

- TommyHawk

While I like the offense that Gustafsson brings, and Oesterle for that matter, neither of them play a lick of defense. Whenever I watch him, playing defense seems like an afterthought for Gustafsson and he attempts to defend only when he has to (i.e. the puck carrier is in his vicinity). I think Oesterle tries to defend at times but just gets beat every time.

Rutta, though, has the tools to be a decent player on both ends of the ice but just needs to gain more experience, confidence, and instruction. Of the 3 of them, I have the most faith in Rutta to improve defensively.
HawkintheD
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Sick Bay, MI
Joined: 02.22.2012

Jun 22 @ 3:25 PM ET
Re: Hillman. Makes sense Tommy. I think they want to keep grooming him, but he looks like a real capable third pairing guy. We just need a guy on that third pair you can trust. Who can eat some minutes. I think he can.

Yes, I agree about "guys stepping up", but you know that's still prognostication and there isn't a single team with crummy defense not saying the same thing..."if X or Y step up we'll be great."

That is the CHIEF difference in the winners and losers. The Winners KNOW they got studs. Harken back to 2013...our top 4 were Keith, Seab, Hammer and Oduya...we KNEW that was a nasty crew to go against. There was no hopes, dreams or speculation.

AT MINIMUM the Hawks need a LEGIT Top Four D-man. They can NOT hope and dream their way to THREE guys stepping up...1 likely will, maybe 2 at some point, but 3? Not a chance.

- kwolf68


Different times. The Core was much younger, but following two first round exits no one quite knew for sure what this team was when the season started.

Many here were screaming for pretty much everyone save Toews be traded and it took 2013 to cement Oduya's status here. Even after the Hawks went on a 26-0-2 run or however they started, most here thought they would be one and done again in the playoffs because this team was a bunch of spinning ballerinas or skating ballerinas or whatever nonsense was being posted.

Change 2013 to 2014 and your post is spot on.
SecondCitySavage
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.22.2018

Jun 22 @ 3:26 PM ET
Welcome to the boards! I agree with Hank that Talbot may have a better fate with a stronger defense in front of him. Although the Hawks defense is better than the Oilers defense, right now it's not by a lot. So if the Hawks can strengthen their blueline this offseason, then Talbot should be considered an option if Crawford is on the block.
- AEL_Fox


Thanks for the welcome.

The Hawks definitely need more depth on D. With Seabs quickly breaking down, and Duncs not too far behind, who knows what their blueline will look like if they dont address that issue right now. Murphy and Forsling had their moments, but did not fill the shoes that the Hawks need him to. Hopefully they can improve and show growth this year. Osterle had a few decent games, but I think he's a 7th D-man at best. It was amazing how good Crow was last season with those guys in front of him. I don't talbot is as talented as Crow, but if Crow isn't going to be the same goalie he was before the injury, Talbot might be the answer.

I agree with you. Either way, better defenseman upfront would help help either tendy.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:26 PM ET
CHI Get:
Cory Schneider
Michael McLeod
2nd round pick (2019)

NJD Get:
Alex DeBrincat
Marian Hossa
3rd round pick (2018)

Doubt you'd be willing to unload DeBrincat but it's all in good fun.

- jjtoepfer


I gotta admit this isn't a terrible offer at all, especially if Crawford couldn't go.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:30 PM ET
Different times. The Core was much younger, but following two first round exits no one quite knew for sure what this team was when the season started.

Many here were screaming for pretty much everyone save Toews be traded and it took 2013 to cement Oduya's status here. Even after the Hawks went on a 26-0-2 run or however they started, most here thought they would be one and done again in the playoffs because this team was a bunch of spinning ballerinas or skating ballerinas or whatever nonsense was being posted.

Change 2013 to 2014 and your post is spot on.

- HawkintheD


Maybe so Hawk...I loved 2013...NO they were not as nasty as the 2010 group, but they could skate your ass out the gym. 2015 I hate to say it had the feel of the last run for some old warriors. Keith's finest moment in the sun. I am still in disbelief at his performance that year. One of the greatest defensive performances I have ever witnessed. But Duncs can't do that anymore....he needs help.
EnzoD
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Denver, CO
Joined: 02.19.2014

Jun 22 @ 3:31 PM ET
CHI Get:
Cory Schneider
Michael McLeod
2nd round pick (2019)

NJD Get:
Alex DeBrincat
Marian Hossa
3rd round pick (2018)

Doubt you'd be willing to unload DeBrincat but it's all in good fun.

- jjtoepfer


If you took Crawford and added Hall then I'm down Otherwise no way is Hossa's contract worth sending you a 19 year old 20 goal scorer for a goalie who lost his net for most of the season last year. Hard pass
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:32 PM ET

Good as 2013 was I would have LOVED to have kept the 2010 group together, but flip in Crawford, add Shaw and Saad. LMAO...Cap probably prevented the Hawks from going on some ridiculous 5 or 6 Cups in 8 years run.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:34 PM ET
If you took Crawford and added Hall then I'm down Otherwise no way is Hossa's contract worth sending you a 19 year old 20 goal scorer for a goalie who lost his net for most of the season last year. Hard pass
- EnzoD


I don't think it's as bad as you think. You think Cory is garbage now? I don't know....Mcleod has Top 6 center potential and has the speed. But yea he's a bit of a futures.
TommyHawk
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 05.23.2013

Jun 22 @ 3:34 PM ET
Re: Hillman. Makes sense Tommy. I think they want to keep grooming him, but he looks like a real capable third pairing guy. We just need a guy on that third pair you can trust. Who can eat some minutes. I think he can.

Yes, I agree about "guys stepping up", but you know that's still prognostication and there isn't a single team with crummy defense not saying the same thing..."if X or Y step up we'll be great."

That is the CHIEF difference in the winners and losers. The Winners KNOW they got studs. Harken back to 2013...our top 4 were Keith, Seab, Hammer and Oduya...we KNEW that was a nasty crew to go against. There was no hopes, dreams or speculation.

AT MINIMUM the Hawks need a LEGIT Top Four D-man. They can NOT hope and dream their way to THREE guys stepping up...1 likely will, maybe 2 at some point, but 3? Not a chance.

- kwolf68

The difference is, Keith and Seabrook were essentially at the pinnacle of their careers as elite NHL d-men, and Hammer and Oduya were veterans that Q trusted. These baby Hawks are still getting acclimated, and it’s much harder for them to get comfortable because as soon as they make a mistake, back into the press box they go. That’s exactly what Kempny reiterated as to why he was having success and found comfort in Washington. He was actually given a fair shake and didn’t have to worry about playing mistake-free hockey the way these Hawks do with Q breathing down their necks. Either Q has to adjust his playing style and let these guys get comfortable in their roles, or be shown the door for his stubbornness and how he simply rode the coattails of the successful core right into the ground without developing any of the future contributors. Murphy, Rutta, and Goose have what it takes to be solid everyday d-men. As much as it is on them to do what’s asked of them, it’s just as much on the coaching staff to give them the opportunities to improve. Hopefully, first and foremost we see continuity this season on the backend and Q and his blender slow it down.
jjtoepfer
New Jersey Devils
Location: Chicago, IL
Joined: 01.21.2011

Jun 22 @ 3:35 PM ET
If you took Crawford and added Hall then I'm down Otherwise no way is Hossa's contract worth sending you a 19 year old 20 goal scorer for a goalie who lost his net for most of the season last year. Hard pass
- EnzoD

He had a back injury last season that's why he wasn't very solid. It was just a thought. I'd take crawford back and then just buy him out and his drinking problem. I mean stan traded panarin for saad. He tends to unload great young talent with bad contracts.
breadbag
Location: Edmonton, AB
Joined: 11.30.2015

Jun 22 @ 3:36 PM ET
Thanks for the welcome.

The Hawks definitely need more depth on D. With Seabs quickly breaking down, and Duncs not too far behind, who knows what their blueline will look like if they dont address that issue right now. Murphy and Forsling had their moments, but did not fill the shoes that the Hawks need him to. Hopefully they can improve and show growth this year. Osterle had a few decent games, but I think he's a 7th D-man at best. It was amazing how good Crow was last season with those guys in front of him. I don't talbot is as talented as Crow, but if Crow isn't going to be the same goalie he was before the injury, Talbot might be the answer.

I agree with you. Either way, better defenseman upfront would help help either tendy.

- SecondCitySavage


IMO, they need to figure out the Seabrook situation. He has some usefulness and good hockey IQ but his physical play has been declining in the last 4 seasons. I'm very interested to see what condition he comes to camp in, because to me, him finding a way to bounce back physically would be a "HUGE" improvement. I'm not saying it will happen, but he isn't so old that it is impossible to work his ass off and extend his usefulness. I do think his game in the press box did send him a message and I'm willing to bet he went into the off season knowing he has to be better.
Z3Hawk
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 05.04.2017

Jun 22 @ 3:38 PM ET
CHI Get:
Cory Schneider
Michael McLeod
2nd round pick (2019)

NJD Get:
Alex DeBrincat
Marian Hossa
3rd round pick (2018)

Doubt you'd be willing to unload DeBrincat but it's all in good fun.

- jjtoepfer


I pull my hair out every time someone suggests a trade involving DeBrincat or Schmaltz. Not going to happen. Thankfully I have a thick head of hair.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:38 PM ET
The difference is, Keith and Seabrook were essentially at the pinnacle of their careers as elite NHL d-men, and Hammer and Oduya were veterans that Q trusted. These baby Hawks are still getting acclimated, and it’s much harder for them to get comfortable because as soon as they make a mistake, back into the press box they go. That’s exactly what Kempny reiterated as to why he was having success and found comfort in Washington. He was actually given a fair shake and didn’t have to worry about playing mistake-free hockey the way these Hawks do with Q breathing down their necks. Either Q has to adjust his playing style and let these guys get comfortable in their roles, or be shown the door for his stubbornness and how he simply rode the coattails of the successful core right into the ground without developing any of the future contributors. Murphy, Rutta, and Goose have what it takes to be solid everyday d-men. As much as it is on them to do what’s asked of them, it’s just as much on the coaching staff to give them the opportunities to improve. Hopefully, first and foremost we see continuity this season on the backend and Q and his blender slow it down.
- TommyHawk


Do not disagree, but with the heat coming down from Rocky to see some results, will that mean Q tightens the leash even more on kids? The press box non-sense was a joke. And toward the end of the year, Seabrook and even Keith should have been given nights off. Why play them when there is nothing to play for? You're just putting more miles on their tires and also missing chances for the kids to get in there and learn. With Q, you just NEVER KNOW.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:39 PM ET
I pull my hair out every time someone suggests a trade involving DeBrincat or Schmaltz. Not going to happen. Thankfully I have a thick head of hair.
- Z3Hawk


For the right return (not saying that is) it absolutely could happen. I like both, but neither are Wayne Gretzky and that guy got traded.
Z3Hawk
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 05.04.2017

Jun 22 @ 3:43 PM ET
For the right return (not saying that is) it absolutely could happen. I like both, but neither are Wayne Gretzky and that guy got traded.
- kwolf68


The Gretsky trade was about $. Rocky’s got lots.
jrsamu
Season Ticket Holder
Joined: 11.07.2014

Jun 22 @ 3:43 PM ET
While I like the offense that Gustafsson brings, and Oesterle for that matter, neither of them play a lick of defense. Whenever I watch him, playing defense seems like an afterthought for Gustafsson and he attempts to defend only when he has to (i.e. the puck carrier is in his vicinity). I think Oesterle tries to defend at times but just gets beat every time.

Rutta, though, has the tools to be a decent player on both ends of the ice but just needs to gain more experience, confidence, and instruction. Of the 3 of them, I have the most faith in Rutta to improve defensively.

- AEL_Fox


This is a +1. I may be willing to give Gustafsson a longer look as a third line offensive d-man and power play guy. To me Oesterle is a third pair guy only. Period. And we have several of them already.

Ruutu showed promise on the defensive end and IMO carried the heavy lifting when he and Forsling were taking heavy d-minutes. Why he fell out of favor and other guys received the minutes post-injury is a question (with a Capital Q)...Not so excited to see him moved unless it is part of the deal that brings back a today Top 4 dman.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:44 PM ET
The Gretsky trade was about $. Rocky’s got lots.
- Z3Hawk


Doesn't matter. He was traded as where MANY OTHER players who were way better than either Schmaltz or DinkyCat.

Again, I like them both, but if someone offers up a top 4 D, a forward prospect and a high pick I'm moving em.
Matt Ross
Joined: 03.15.2013

Jun 22 @ 3:48 PM ET
For the right return (not saying that is) it absolutely could happen. I like both, but neither are Wayne Gretzky and that guy got traded.
- kwolf68


Who is this "Wayne Gretzky" you speak of? Was he any good?
SecondCitySavage
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.22.2018

Jun 22 @ 3:50 PM ET
IMO, they need to figure out the Seabrook situation. He has some usefulness and good hockey IQ but his physical play has been declining in the last 4 seasons. I'm very interested to see what condition he comes to camp in, because to me, him finding a way to bounce back physically would be a "HUGE" improvement. I'm not saying it will happen, but he isn't so old that it is impossible to work his ass off and extend his usefulness. I do think his game in the press box did send him a message and I'm willing to bet he went into the off season knowing he has to be better.
- breadbag


No doubt. I'm a big Seabrook fan. Although his performance in his own end has not been great since the Cup run in 2015. 2016's offensive numbers were great, and he did have to babysit TVR on his off-side. I agree, and I hope he does come back next season in a better condition where his skating is noticibly better. When he was a healthy scratch against Ottawa, he scored a goal the next game against Minn, there was a bit of response there, but I don't think his body was able to sustain that level of play all season. If he can play with that chip on his shoulder as he might have that game, then the Hawks would be in a way better position on their blueline.

What he adds off the ice in experience and knowledge definitely will help the younger guys develop into contributors as they progress through the season.
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:50 PM ET
Who is this "Wayne Gretzky" you speak of? Was he any good?
- Hank3Henshaw


He was alright. Biggest claim to fame is there are some hockey drills named after him.
Matt Ross
Joined: 03.15.2013

Jun 22 @ 3:53 PM ET
He was alright. Biggest claim to fame is there are some hockey drills named after him.
- kwolf68


Ahhh. I gotcha. Thanks for clarifying.

Haha.
riozzo
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Cornwallis Island
Joined: 06.17.2014

Jun 22 @ 3:54 PM ET
Interesting article on ranking draft slots.

https://www.tsn.ca/statis...aft-pick-values-1.1119528
kwolf68
Chicago Blackhawks
Location: Mt. Lebanon, PA
Joined: 12.18.2010

Jun 22 @ 3:55 PM ET
Ahhh. I gotcha. Thanks for clarifying.

Haha.

- Hank3Henshaw


LOL.
Theo Fox
Chicago Blackhawks
Joined: 06.18.2016

Jun 22 @ 3:55 PM ET
The difference is, Keith and Seabrook were essentially at the pinnacle of their careers as elite NHL d-men, and Hammer and Oduya were veterans that Q trusted. These baby Hawks are still getting acclimated, and it’s much harder for them to get comfortable because as soon as they make a mistake, back into the press box they go. That’s exactly what Kempny reiterated as to why he was having success and found comfort in Washington. He was actually given a fair shake and didn’t have to worry about playing mistake-free hockey the way these Hawks do with Q breathing down their necks. Either Q has to adjust his playing style and let these guys get comfortable in their roles, or be shown the door for his stubbornness and how he simply rode the coattails of the successful core right into the ground without developing any of the future contributors. Murphy, Rutta, and Goose have what it takes to be solid everyday d-men. As much as it is on them to do what’s asked of them, it’s just as much on the coaching staff to give them the opportunities to improve. Hopefully, first and foremost we see continuity this season on the backend and Q and his blender slow it down.
- TommyHawk

Good post
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