Chicago Blackhawks Final Preseason Game Preview

Speaking of the youngsters, let’s take a closer look at who will be looking to make that final good impression tonight

I believe that Schmaltz, Hartman, Hinostroza, and Motte are all locks to make the team.  To help justify this argument, here are the line combinations from Friday’s practice:

Panarin-Toews-Panik

Motte-Anisimov-Kane

Hartman-Kruger-Hossa

Hinostroza-Schmaltz-Tootoo

As you can see, even with Toews and Marian Hossa back in the lineup, these four are still there as well. Now this doesn’t mean they don’t have to play well tonight, but chances are they have already proven themselves at this point.

Earlier in the preseason, it appeared that Rasmussen was in consideration for the fourth line center position.  But recently, Schmaltz and Desjardins have been in contention for this spot as well.  I would think that Rasmussen needs to have a strong game tonight, or he might find himself in Rockford.

Well, this would be really fun to watch, but I don’t think it’s going to happen.  Fortin has certainly impressed this preseason, but I don’t see him making the opening night roster.  There’s too many people ahead of him.  My bet is that tonight’s game will be the last we see of Fortin for a while.