Chicago Blackhawks’ Early Opening Night Lineup Projection

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Oct 4, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Nick Schmaltz (8) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the second period of a preseason game against Detroit Red Wings at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports /

So how does this opening night lineup actually look?

Schmaltz-Toews-Hossa

Panarin-Anisimov-Kane

Fortin-Kruger-Panik

Hinostroza-Rasmussen-Tootoo

Press box: Desjardins, Mashinter/Hartman

Now, is this lineup optimal? Absolutely not. I think the Blackhawks can do better based on who is left on the camp roster. But based on watching Q create lineups since 2008, this is what I think he’s most likely to roll with against St. Louis.

It may not last past that one game, or it may last a while depending on the team’s level of success that day. The forwards are a work in progress, and this is just Step 1 — at least in my estimation.