Chicago Blackhawks: ‘Ex-Hawks’ Filled With Champions

2 of 9

Mar 14, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Winnipeg Jets left wing Andrew Ladd (16) skates with the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Amalie Arena. The Jets won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

1^st line – Brandon Saad (Columbus Blue Jackets)-Antoine Vermette (Arizona Coyotes)-Andrew Ladd (Captain, Winnipeg Jets)

This is a really talented first line for the Ex-Hawks that is loaded with a couple of power forwards. Ladd is coming off a 24-goal year with the Jets and would pair nicely with a young stud in Saad, who plays a similar style as Ladd, though with more flair.

Vermette isn’t exactly a first-line center at this stage of his career, but he can still win big draws and is the most talented center on this roster. He’s more of a two-way player than Brad Richards and is a reliable center in both the offensive and defensive zones.

Live Feed

Da Windy City

2 new Chicago Blackhawks players to be thankful for in 2021 Da Windy City

Chicago Blackhawks: Calgary was a tough way to end the trip Da Windy City

Chicago Blackhawks: 1 player to keep an eye on in Calgary Da Windy City

Chicago Blackhawks: Marc-Andre Fleury saves the day in win Da Windy City

Gameday preview: Canucks vs Blackhawks (November 21) The Canuck Way

It won’t be quite as easy as it was playing with Jonathan Toews, but Saad would likely continue to grow into a first-tier pro with Vermette and Ladd on his line. Ladd also earns the “C” on his sweater for the Ex-Hawks after leading his Jets to a playoff berth last season.

This would be a legitimate starting first line in the NHL. Each individual can play a two-way style when necessary. There has to be some sort of clever nickname for a one-timer from Ladd to Saad; there’s just too much alliteration.

More from Blackhawk Up