Chicago Blackhawks: Opening Night Forward Lines

1 of 5

Though summer is far from over, the turn of the calendar to August marks an important point in the hockey world: only one month until team training camps begin, and two months until the start of the regular season.

With the focus shifting from roster moves to the make-up of each team, it’s time to begin making predictions of how the Chicago Blackhawks will look when they step on the ice for their banner-raising ceremony on Oct. 7.

In the first part of a two-part series, we take our guess at what the Blackhawks’ roster will look like, beginning with the forward lines.

Fourth Line

Andrew Desjardins – Marcus Kruger – Andrew Shaw

A Marcus between two Andrews should be enough to please Blackhawks fans, as this fourth unit will be capable of contributing on both sides of the puck, far more than most of their opponents. Desjardins was a bright spot for the Blackhawks last season, and his inclusion in last season’s playoff run seems to have reinvigorated the veteran. Shaw’s year was up and down, though he certainly has proven to be an effective bottom-six forward, and with solid, consistent play, he could move up to the third line in a hurry. Of course, this is all dependent on the re-signing of Kruger, though it seems a given that he will be a Blackhawk next season, per reports over the past few weeks.

Next: Predicting The Third Line

Fourth Line

Andrew Desjardins – Marcus Kruger – Andrew Shaw

More from Blackhawk Up