Chicago Blackhawks Morning Links: Thank You, Sharpie

The Chicago Blackhawks closed the door on the 2017-18 season this weekend, and they can finally put it behind them

Before we get into any Chicago Blackhawks stuff, you all know about the tragic incident over the weekend involving the Humboldt Broncos hockey club.  We wanted to post the link to the Go Fund Me page if any of you would like to make a donation to help the families grieving from this heartbreaking event.

This year was one of the most agonizing seasons for Blackhawks fans to follow.  With everything seeming to go wrong for the Central Division powerhouse, the hardest part had to be moving on from cup contention.  Just last year, the Hawks were the best team in the Western Conference and now they’re staying home for the playoffs.  With with names like Toews, Kane, and Keith still on the roster, there is plenty of reason for why fans are disappointed.  It’s been difficult to come to grips that this franchise may be changing direction, but at least now they can look to the offseason to reevaluate their plan.

There are a couple of bright spots that should be noted in a down season for a lot of players.  We have to start by praising forward Alex DeBrincat.  The under-sized sniper showed he can produce in the NHL first by winning a job out of training camp and proving that he belongs.  DeBrincat ended the season with a team-high 28 goals.  We also saw centerman Nick Schmaltz take the next step in his sophomore season.  Schmaltz had 21 goals and 31 assists, showing he can be a top line playmaker in the NHL.

There is no use dwelling on negatives because they have been discussed all year.  And with Blackhawks President John McDonough coming out and saying there will be no changes with the GM and head coaching positions, all we can do is wait and see what adjustments will be made.

It was also announced that forward Patrick Sharp will be retiring from the NHL.  Sharp has meant a lot to this franchise and will ride off into the sunset wearing a Blackhawks sweater.

In the mean time, Blackhawks fans can still support the Hawks AHL and ECHL affiliates as the Rockford IceHogs are in a close playoff race and the Indy Fuel have qualified for the post season.

Next: Blackhawks' Sharp Leaves Long Lasting Legacy

Morning Links

• Blackhawks have a 20.4% chance of picking top three in the NHL Draft – NBC5 Chicago
• Little roster flexibility for Blackhawks this summer – Sun Times
• Dylan Sikura’s development – Chicago Tribune
• Blackhawks pay Tribute to Humboldt Broncos – Fox News
• Aurelio’s Pizza owner & JR help CPD – WGN