The Chicago Blackhawks missed the playoffs for the second season in a row. The offense is not to blame. In fact, they were one of the more productive offenses in the NHL.
It might seem like an eternity since the Blackhawks have seen any success as a result of their high-powered offense. Is this the end of an era? That question looms in the back of Blackhawks fans’ minds as each season continues to disappoint.
At least it’s baseball season.
Believe it, or not, the Blackhawks ranked eighth in the league in goals for (267) at the end of the regular season. Despite finishing one position above last in the Central division, the Blackhawks finished three goals shy of the division-leading Winnipeg Jets (270).
This offense is nowhere near stale. In the past 10 seasons, the Blackhawks have placed in the top 10 for goals eight times.
With three players scoring over 30 goals in the 2018-2019 season, there should be no questioning the potential of this Blackhawks offense. The 12 up front are doing their job. This was more than noticeable in the last half of the season. The Blackhawks scored the second most goals, among the league, in games 41-82 (154).
Patrick Kane and the Blackhawks offense was on fire. Let’s keep that fire roaring.
The Chicago Blackhawks drew the third overall pick in the lottery. With young defensive talent already in the pipeline (take a look for yourself), the Blackhawks have a great opportunity to add on another forward.
In addition to the early pick in the draft, there is a lot to look forward to this summer. The Blackhawks have some money to work with in free agency. Also, a piece could be moved to acquire a dominant defensive role to reinforce the blue line.
Regardless of the disappointing season, the ‘Long Night’ seems to be coming to an end for the Blackhawks. Clearly, the offense can create chances and score goals. The goaltending is not to blame either. The defense needs some upgrades. Their production seems to have been a topic of discussion for quite some time.
This is where it gets exciting; free agency and the draft. Settle in and stay tuned. Only about five months until the 2019-2020 season. Stan has a good chunk of time to work some magic.