Chicago Blackhawks’ Star Players Won’t Play In Columbus Exhibition

If you were hoping to learn more about the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospects, you’ll get your chance tonight in the preseason opener against Columbus

The Chicago Blackhawks have announced their roster for their preseason opener tonight against Columbus. The Blackhawks are not sending any stars to play in this game. They are also not sending super-prospect Alex DeBrincat to the preseason opener. DeBrincat’s absence could lead to more speculation on his chances of making the team.

Another top prospect, Alexandre Fortin, is not making the trip to Columbus. It appears the Blackhawks are playing it safe with him post-surgery.

The Blackhawks are not sending many guys from last year’s squad, in fact. The returning Blackhawks from last season who will face the Blue Jackets tonight: are: John Hayden, Tomas Jurco, Michal Kempny, Vinnie Hinostroza, Gustav Forsling and Nick Schmaltz.

Players to watch tonight

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There are still Blackhawks worth watching in tonight’s game, though. Even more so, perhaps, since more of the prospects are playing. My picks for players to watch in tonight’s game are Anton Forsberg, Henri Jokiharju, Jan Rutta and David Kampf.

• Anton Forsberg: to see how he handles his first start in a Blakchawks uniform.
• Henri Jokiharju: to see how ready the Blackhawks’ 2017 first-round pick is for the big time.
• Jan Rutta: It will be his first NHL game. It will be interesting to see how he transitions to the smaller ice.
• David Kampf: It will also be his first game on the smaller NHL ice. It will be interesting to see how his game adjusts.

The Blue Jackets are going to play Artemi Panarin against his former team tonight. This will be the first time Panarin suits up against the ’Hawks since getting traded this offseason.

Tyler Motte will also be playing for the Blue Jackets tonight. Motte appeared in 33 games with the Blackhawks last season before an injury. He never returned to form after his injury and spent the rest of his Blackhawks tenure in Rockford.

Next: Blackhawks, Panarin Could Square Off Tonight

The first training camp cut is Wednesday or Thursday of this week. I would expect a lot of guys who play tonight to be cut then.