3 Chicago Blackhawks storylines to follow for next season

Who Will Be This Year's Breakout Performer?

Last season, many people expected Philip Kurashev to play a significant role on a not-so-talented Blackhawks team. However, I don't think anyone could have predicted just how large of an impact he would end up having on the team.

Kurashev's previous season high in points was 25 points. This past season he more than doubled that number with a 54-point campaign. He was truly a bright spot in a mostly bleak season.

So, who will be this season's Kurashev? I don't know if I can provide a definitive answer to that question. (Sorry for the cliffhanger) But I do have a few candidates to watch.

I think we could see a really big jump from Kevin Korchinski in year two. For one, he will now have the benefit of experience. He went through the grind of an NHL season last year, and while his play left much to be desired, he now knows exactly what he is preparing for as he trains all summer. I expect him to continue putting on size and muscle and to polish up the little details that Richardson was looking for him to improve upon.

Furthermore, Korchinski may actually be in a more sheltered role in his second season in Chicago. I could see the Hawks rolling out the following defensive pairs.

These pairings would allow the first two lines to play the big minutes against the other teams top lines, while Korchinski could develop his game in fewer minutes alongside a reliable NHL veteran like TJ Brodie.

Another potential breakout candidate to watch is Lukas Reichel.... (don't laugh).

I know many fans are down on Reichel and I can't blame them for feeling that way, but hear me out. Reichel is still so young, and he still possesses all the tools that the Hawks saw when they drafted him. Furthermore, look at other 2020 NHL draft picks around the league.

Many of them are just now finding their game in the NHL. Alexis Lafreniere and Quinton Byfield both began to look like number one and two picks this past season after struggling for years, and I believe that Reichel could finally show up next season in a similar way.

So what do you think will be the biggest storyline to watch for next season? Will you be following Bedard's every move and tracking his stats each game? Or maybe you'll be watching the new guys and trying to find your new favorite player. Whatever your reason for watching, enjoy! Remember that this is all just a game and that it is supposed to be fun! We are blessed to have a hockey team in Chicago to root for and to have storylines to follow.