Chicago Blackhawks unveil new centennial home jersey to mixed reaction

Ahead of the team's 100th season, the Chicago Blackhawks have released their centennial home jersey.

The jersey does not differ much from the team's current home jerseys

However, the updated look does feature a couple of subtle additions.

First, the Blackhawks crest and back numbers are outlined in gold to pay tribute to "the gold-trimmed sweaters worn in the earliest days of Blackhawks hockey."

In another homage to the past, the sweater features "a vintage lace-up collar." Finally, some smaller details include a Centennial soldier patch as well as an inside hem honoring the franchise's six Stanley Cup victories.

Early fan reactions have bemoaned the fact that the team did not opt to go with a primarily black jersey. While some fans really like the new look.

But, overall, this is a very clean look that simultaneously celebrates the past while looking forward to a brighter future. And, as the saying goes, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." The Blackhawks historically have some of the best uniforms in the league, so there was no need to reinvent the wheel with this one.

Hawks fans won't have to wait long to see a player in the Centennial sweater, as it is highly likely one of Anton Frondell, Michael Misa, Caleb Desnoyers, or Porter Martone will be wearing it tonight after the team makes the third selection in the NHL Draft.

Regardless of who dons the new sweater tonight, we know that the Hawks young core of Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Spencer Knight will be wearing it next season, and fans should be excited and grateful for that.