5 Blackhawks with looming cap questions heading into 2018-19 season

5 Blackhawks with looming cap questions heading into 2018-19 NHL season

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 18: Brent Seabrook #7 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks across the ice in the second period against the St. Louis Blues at the United Center on March 18, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The St. Louis Blues defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 5-4. (Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images) /

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NEWARK, NJ – DECEMBER 23: Corey Crawford #50 of the Chicago Blackhawks defends his net against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on December 23, 2017 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Andy Marlin/NHLI via Getty Images) /

2. Corey Crawford

Crow says no…to most shots over the past few years. The two-time Cup winner stands out even among critics wondering if he’s a top goaltender in this league. This past season proved that’s a no-brainer. Without Crawford, the Blackhawks were a liability defensively and were regularly carved up. It definitely shows why a guy like Keith, who seemed to be on the ice at all the wrong times.

In the breakdown of the team cap by area, goaltender sits at roughly $6.5 million, with $6 million being Crawford’s cap hit over the next two seasons. That is a solid number for a strong goaltender, but the biggest question it has given us is about what’s behind him. Because of the numbers at the top offensively and defensively, how can you afford to have that strong two-goalie system?

Think about Crawford and Ray Emery; they were lights out. Scott Darling was big last year in relief and thus got a big contract elsewhere. The Blackhawks hoped Forsberg would pay off in net and he’s shown promise, but also had some really bad outings. Same with call-ups like Jeff Glass.

How do they work another contract into the rotation there — or will they? Crawford remains, but if he gets hurt again it’ll be another long season for the Blackhawks.

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