Chicago Blackhawks’ Who’s Hot And Not: Russians Stay Hot Despite Skid

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Nov 13, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Montreal Canadiens center Andrew Shaw (65) checks Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Michal Kempny (6) during the third period at the United Center. Chicago won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

Who’s Not: Michal Kempny

Some of GM Stan Bowman’s overseas signings have worked out such as winger Artemi Panarin. Others have not. Enter Michal Kempny.

The 26-year-old Czech defenseman has found himself in coach Joel Quenneville’s doghouse. This generally means your ice time will be diminished until you can prove you can play unselfish Blackhawks hockey.

In his last five games played, Kempny has 0 points and is a minus-5. On the year, he has 0 goals, 2 assists and is a minus-3. On a positive note, Kempny has 47 hits and is very physical in the defensive zone.

With Michal Rozsival looking like he’s simply on the team for veteran leadership, the Blackhawks will use all the depth they can get come playoff time. The ice will shrink and the ’Hawks will need physical defensemen to win battles in the corners.

The second half of the season will hopefully be a different story for Kempny with the playoff roster soon to be solidified. This experiment of carrying eight defensemen will possibly end and the trade deadline will potentially add more depth for a deep playoff run.

Next: Blackhawks' Artemi Panarin Signs New Deal

This could mean a couple forwards being sent down, even a player like Gustav Forsling who may not have the size and experience to compete come playoff time. This could mean increased minutes for Kempny and a chance for him to redeem himself.