Reasons to have hope regarding the Chicago Blackhawks

In my opinion, there are two key decisions to be made going forward.

First, who is going to be the man behind the bench? Getting the perfect coach is priority number one for the Blackhawks this summer. It seems that Denver's David Carle is Kyle Davidson's preference, and there are many reasons to believe that he would be an excellent hire.

I would prefer a deeply experienced NHL head coach, but Carle has an elite pedigree and star potential. So even if he isn't perfect immediately, the theory would be that long term he is the next Jon Cooper, or Jim Montgomery type coach that takes the NHL by storm.

The second thing that the Hawks need to do is figure out who their biggest free agent target will be should Mitch Marner resign or sign elsewhere this summer.

There are a few names that are not "superstars" but are excellent top six forwards who would raise this team's floor considerably. Brock Boeser is a name to watch, as is Nikolaj Ehlers. However, one guy that I would be very interested in talking to is a controversial one.... Brad Marchand... More on that as we approach free agency.

Kyle Davidson will need to answer these two questions this summer as the Hawks continue building a future contender.

But after seeing how well the young guys performed in their first taste of the NHL, we now have evidence to support feeling hopeful. It is no longer theoretical that Sam Rinzel will be a top 4 NHL defenseman. He came in and did it. It is no longer theoretical that Frank Nazar will be a top 6 forward. He came in and did it.

There are now tangible pieces of film to watch and see these top Hawks prospects flying around the ice and making plays. We no longer need to wonder. And don't forget that the Blackhawks will have another top-four pick coming in the summer as well.

There are so many reasons to feel hopeful and excited about this team again. What a difference a month can make in the NHL.