Chicago Blackhawks Update: Stan Bowman has fans divided by moves

Stan Bowman, general manager of the Chicago Blackhawks, sure has shaken up his roster the past few days thanks to the moves he made so far during the free agency period of the offseason. There is a lot to discuss.

Since the time of our last Chicago Blackhawks Update, the team has decided to part ways with Corey Crawford. Stan Bowman had little to say on the move besides the fact that he believes the team needs to give their young goalies more of a shot. Whether or not the team goes out and adds a veteran goalie, one thing is for sure. The Corey Crawford era in the net is behind us in Chicago.

The decision to not re-sign Crawford hurt Blackhawks fans, especially after learning he would go on to sign with New Jersey. However, at least the team was able to bring back one of their star players. Dominik Kubalik was signed on a 3.7 million dollar two-year contract. This bridge deal was great for both sides.

Brandon Saad was the latest Blackhawk to be traded, and he might not be the last. While Saad was going to be dealt at some point within the next year, I was shocked to see him go to Colorado for no prospects and picks in return. Oh and we also saved a million in his salary. Bowman has to know something we don’t to explain that trade.

So with the NHL draft behind us and nothing to really look forward to now that the season won’t start back up officially to January, the question on Blackhawks fans’ minds is whether or not the team is entering a rebuild. It is well overdue at this point.

Chicago also re-signed Malcolm Subban this past weekend and allowed Slater Koekkoek and Drake Caggiula to walk to free agency after not offering the two contracts. Honestly, I am shocked to see Caggiula go after how well he had been at providing a depth scoring touch when healthy. Both should still be in the NHL next season so keep your eye out for where they end up next year.

Must Read Blackhawks News:

Chicago Blackhawks: Corey Crawford era was nothing but excellent
(From Da Windy City By Vincent Parise)

Blackhawks notebook: Many top free agents remain, but Hawks likely won’t be calling
(From Chicago Sun-Times By Ben Pope)

Blackhawks players react to organization moving on from Corey Crawford
(From NBC Sports Chicago By Scott King)

Blackhawks’ early free agent moves come as a surprise to the veterans
(From WGN By Larry Hawley)