Blackhawk Up Q&A Mailbag: 8/16/22

You all had some questions, I had some answers. Enjoy today’s edition of the Q&A mailbag. 

Who is the Prospect most likely to breakout this upcoming season? - @ThePriceIsRyte

I think the easy answer is Lukas Reichel. He averaged over a point per game in the AHL last season with Rockford, and will likely get first line ice time alongside Patrick Kane for a majority of the season. His 200 foot game is something that really stands out to me, and I think the points are gonna start coming very naturally. 

I also will go out on a limb and say Alex Vlasic establishes himself as at least a top 4 defenseman, if not top 2. I really like his game, and I think he’s gonna get a shot with top line minutes. It’s up to him to maintain it, and show why he deserves to be there. 

How many years will it take for the Hawks to compete for the Cup again? - @GhostEcho98

I think it’s at minimum, 5 years. I’m kinda going off of what the team themselves have said about a “5 year rebuild” but I think by the fifth year, they should at least be a playoff team again. It really depends on their ability to bring in the right pieces to build around because it’s not only skill they need, it’s guys with the right character and attitude. 

If the Hawks are able to get a top 3 pick in next year's draft, they're likely set. They snagged Kevin Korchinski and Frank Nazar in this year’s draft, and I think within a couple seasons those guys could be running full time with the squad. 

I also think the trades of Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews will play a big part on how long it’ll take. You have to try and get everything you possibly can for both players. Let a team overpay, you’re going to get someone who wants either one really bad, and offer you a diamond in the rough. Be patient, don’t rush it.