NHL division previews: 2017-18 Central Division

3rd in 2017-18 Central Division – Chicago Blackhawks

The window is closing in Chicago, and closing quickly. With some of the contracts they’re carrying, they need to capitalize on what little time they have left and make another push for a Stanley Cup. With the roster at their disposal, there is every reason to believe they can do just that.

The forward group looks as strong as ever. Other than trading Artemi Panarin to bring back fan favorite Brandon Saad, the group looks much the same. You can expect to see the same level of production from Patrick Kane, and Saad will benefit from playing in what is a more talented top six and will push the 55 to 60 point mark on the season.

Jonathan Toews will be another name that the Blackhawks will have to rely on. If he too can break the 60-point mark, Chicago will only have to worry about their back-end and backup goaltending as possible issues.

Duncan Keith is undeniably one of the best defensemen in the league, but after that, the ‘Hawks defensive corps looks a bit hit-or-miss. They have Brent Seabrook, Michal Kempny, Connor Murphy, Gustav Forsling and Michal Roszival likely rounding out their three defensive pairings.

Corey Crawford is a sound goaltender, and he certainly isn’t going to be the reason for Chicago having an uncharacteristic down year. The one question between the pipes is how the likely backup Anton Forsberg will do. Forsberg has struggled in his limited NHL experience with his former team, the Columbus Blue Jackets. The ‘Hawks will be hoping the fact that he’ll be a consistent backup here will help him to be comfortable when called upon.

Player to watch in 2017-18: Brandon Saad. Being traded for a forward who had back-to-back 70-plus point seasons is never easy. Returning to the city where you had your first taste of success adds another note of interest. If Saad can continue to perform like he did with the Blue Jackets, there is reason to believe he can be a 30-30-60 type of guy.