Blackhawks Will Need Breakthrough Seasons From These Players

Collin Delia
Collin Delia came up huge this season, in the absence of Corey Crawford. Part of the reason why the Blackhawks were even in the playoff race at the end of the season is due to Delia’s play in net. He was really solid in his rookie season and it looks like he has a bright future here in Chicago.
While Crawford was out this season due to a second concussion, Delia stepped up big time. He posted an impressive stat line behind a historically bad defense — 3.61 GAA and a .908 Sv% in 16 games.
I really liked what I saw out of Collin Delia this season, and apparently, the Blackhawks did as well. They signed him to a very cap friendly 3-year, $3 mil ($1 mil AAV) extension which is huge going forward.
#TheRealDelia has inked a new deal!
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 11, 2019
Goaltender Collin Delia has signed a 3-year extension with the #Blackhawks that runs through the 2021-22 season ($1M/AAV). #DeliaWithIt pic.twitter.com/uWxb2DMwgu
The Blackhawks could very well go with Delia as their backup next season and I’m okay with that. He proved himself worthy behind a terrible defense last season. Imagine what he can do with a little more seasoning and some help in front of him. If Collin Delia is making saves like these, I think it’s safe to say we’re in good hands, literally.
WE ARE NOT WORTHY, COLLIN DELIA!
— NHL on NBC Sports (@NHLonNBCSports) January 20, 2019
WHAT. A. SAVE. pic.twitter.com/xD2IJ8oRU1
At this point, it doesn’t seem like the Blackhawks are going to keep Cam Ward around. Although, it’s still entirely possible. I would prefer to stick with Collin Delia, as a cheap option who’s still trying to prove himself as a reliable future starter, when Corey Crawford eventually moves on or retires.