NHL Power Rankings: Chicago Blackhawks Will Need More Depth

With an handful of Eastern Conference teams that look to be serious Stanley Cup contenders, the Chicago Blackhawks have slipped up a bit in our NHL power rankings

Depth issues.  We’ve been saying this all year.  Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville has been cycling every young player into the first-line left wing position, but nothing seems to be clicking.

Losing to the Blues last year and watching Minnesota seem to take the next step, the Blackhawks need to make one if not a couple moves to be a contender again this year.  The Blackhawks have not been satisfied being a “one and done” team in the playoffs, so look for GM Stan Bowman to trade away more prospects and draft picks in exchange for playoff tested veterans.

What does it all mean for this week’s NHL power rankings? Let’s take a look. (Note: Records and stats as of Tuesday night.)