Blackhawks Business: Still Work To Do

Organizational Structure

This is a really broad term that basically means the following:

Based on the work we have done, and the plans that we have made, we need to do everything possible from an organizational perspective to give this roster a chance to win a Stanley Cup

But what does that really mean? It should mean that everything is on the table, including:

• Adding, subtracting, or replacing coaches at the NHL or AHL level to get the most out of the players in the organization
• Improving facilities (AHL is more what I am thinking about, as discussed here)
• Expanding Player Development Department and Resources
• Adding or moving Scouts to identify more talent to bring to the organization
• Changes to Front Office Structure or Personnel

If the Blackhawks do all of this analysis and self-evaluation and don’t think they have what it takes to legitimately compete for a Stanley Cup during whatever time-frame window they establish, then they need to set a plan in motion that addresses the gaps, and tries to remedy their lack of belief in the future success of the organization.

You see it in how they attacked the Defenseman group and organizational depth the last 2 offseasons. They must have felt they were not good enough on the blue line to contend. They added MAF to their goalie group because they didn’t think their goaltending was good enough to contend right now with a revamped D-corps.

They must feel they have enough up front to compete, because they let talent walk, and didn’t really add much to a group that already includes Patrick Kane, Alex DeBrincat, Dominik Kubalik, and a returning Jonathan Toews.

The biggest question is “ARE THEY RIGHT?” We will see, and the work is far from over, even though the headlines are few and far between from now until September.