Anthony Duclair Proves To Be Strong Addition In Blackhawks’ Debut

The Chicago Blackhawks looked different during Friday’s 2-1 win versus the Winnipeg Jets, and it was all thanks to their third line and an explosive looking new prominent forward in Anthony Duclair.

The Blackhawks made a great deal earlier this week in a trade that included Richard Panik and Laurent Dauphin to the Arizona Coyotes, and Adam Clendening with Anthony Duclair coming to Chicago. It was a trade that highlighted a forward in Duclair, who in which needed a fresh start in a city that compliments him.

Duclair was given this fresh start Friday night in a big divisional match-up versus the Winnipeg Jets. He was paired up with David Kampf and Alex DeBrincat on the third line, which looked to have more speed and cut-throat intensity than usual.

Right out of the gate, Duclair showed speed, intensity, and spirit on the ice. He looked comfortable with the puck when he had the chance to obtain possession, looking for teammates and scoring opportunities alike.

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First Point and Great Opportunities.

Throughout the game, Duclair was a player to watch, especially for me. Being at the game, you’re able to see things differently, in a more authentic setting. The entire building knew it was Duclair’s first game as a Hawk, which made the game more exciting.

Duclair was able to get his first point as a Blackhawk when he made a strong play down-low with the puck. He stood tall, forced himself near the right circle, carved a path for Jan Rutta to allow him to make a sharp play to the net and score his second of the year.

Now, the assist may not seem like a lot on paper, but in real time, it was a great play from Duclair with great hockey IQ. Now, his quality knowledge of what to do on the ice wasn’t only seen on the assist, but later in the game as well.

Duclair made a few great moves to the net himself, one on a breakaway that had almost gone in, but was denied by a great save by Connor Hellebuyck‘s right pad.

Overall in the game, Duclair had a +2 rating, an assist, 11:57 of ice-time, as well as 2:16 on the power play alongside with Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. You know the coach likes you when he puts you on a line with two of the greatest Blackhawks in the history of the franchise.

Chicago Blackhawks

Duclair seems to be poised to make himself anew with the Blackhawks. He compliments the team well, as the team allows him to be more creative and opportunistic on the ice in return. Keep an eye on the Blackhawks’ third line, the depth is definitely there, especially with Duclair now keeping it steady.