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Analysis

Blackhawks Will Need Breakthrough Seasons From These Players

By Tony Gianares
CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 08: Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Henri Jokiharju (28) looks on during a game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Chicago Blackhawks on November 8, 2018, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 08: Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Henri Jokiharju (28) looks on during a game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Chicago Blackhawks on November 8, 2018, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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CHICAGO, IL – JANUARY 09: Goalie Collin Delia #60 of the Chicago Blackhawks reaches for the puck in the second period against the Nashville Predators at the United Center on January 9, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL – JANUARY 09: Goalie Collin Delia #60 of the Chicago Blackhawks reaches for the puck in the second period against the Nashville Predators at the United Center on January 9, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images) /

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.

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.

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.

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