Possible Reasons for the Blackhawks Recent Roster Moves

Development for both Nicolas Beaudin and Reese Johnson, and ice-time for Collin Delia

I think this is the reason for the Blackhawks’ roster moves. As the Chicago Blackhawks look to have their roster set for the time being, they want Beaudin and Johnson to get some ice-time in the minors. The IceHogs are also struggling in the lineup, so the Blackhawks probably decided that they needed help, and sent their best guys who have been riding the bench the last few games.

Sending Nicolas Beaudin to the minors looks to be the best move for the Blackhawks AT THE MOMENT. Unfortunately, he has not been playing that much in the NHL despite displaying that he does belong in the league. In order for him to continue his development, the front office seemed to have decided that he needed to be active in a top-two defensemen role. I personally do not agree with this move, but I’m not the GM.

Reese Johnson is the same way. With a few roster spots about to open up at the end of the season, the Blackhawks want their promising youngsters who proved they can play in the NHL to stay active, and the only way to do so would be in the minors. Again, I don’t agree with this.

As for Collin Delia, I suppose the IceHogs wanted a better goaltender, and the Chicago Blackhawks made the obvious choice to send Delia to help them on a conditioning stint. Now he will be able to get some practice and playing time considering he hasn’t played since January.

Delia, though possessing some potential, did not impress with his ice-time while Kevin Lankinen and Malcolm Subban have been eye-catching. This is still a puzzling move, but not as much as the other two.

To conclude, I don’t agree with these moves, but the Blackhawks want them to stay active, and the only way to do this is by sending them to the AHL. Beaudin will continue his top-defensemen role for the IceHogs while Johnson will continue his hard-nosed ways in the top-nine. Delia could polish up his skills as well. I am looking forward to seeing what Brad Morrison could do, but it’s a stretch to think that he will make his debut in a mostly-healthy ‘Hawks lineup.