Chicago Blackhawks: 5 Reasons They’ll Make The Playoffs In 2018

3. Hartman, Schmaltz and DeBrincat: At least one of them will do well  

Jeffrey claims that none of these three fellas will live up to their potential next season.  That’s awfully pessimistic, wouldn’t you say?   Hartman’s production was a pleasant surprise last year, but he’s been groomed for this for many years.  I don’t see any reason why he can’t put up even better numbers this season.

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Nick Schmaltz had confidence issues last year, but I think with more playing time, he’ll thrive.  And it’s a crapshoot whether DeBrincat’s skills will transfer to the NHL level.  Perhaps he will spend the beginning of the season in the AHL, and be called up later in the year.

So, I have all three players contributing at a higher level than last season.  Am I being too optimistic?  Perhaps, but I could be right.  What if just one player does well?  Or even two?  The potential is definitely there for these guys to add to the team.