NHL Free Agency: Grading the Blackhawks' signings

NHL Free Agency: Grading the Blackhawks’ signings

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 17: Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville and center Jonathan Toews (19) during the third period during a game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Minnesota Wild on December 17, 2017, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. Blackhawks won 4-1. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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TAMPA, FL – MARCH 6: Chris Kunitz /

Chris Kunitz

I like Chris Kunitz! Too bad he doesn’t fill a need.

The Blackhawks struggled mightily on offense, but their shortcomings there were outdone by their struggles in net and defensively. We’re talking the top 6 forwards bunch; the lines were bad at times, and you saw it in a slump for stars across the board.

Kunitz is going to be 39 (!) this year. Kunitz is a fourth liner through and through, and that’s most evident with where he’s at now. He did have 29 points in 2017-18, but he shoots a ton and struggles with his speed. It’s hard to see how that benefits a group that can’t bear to pair anyone
to that.

Looking back at the stats for Kunitz, it’s funny to see the trend. The past four years have been mirrored. In 2014-15 and 2015-16: 40 points, 17 goals and 23 assists both years. In 2016-17 and 2017-18: 29 points .Nine goals in 2016-17, but 13 this past year. If that trend continues, are we bound for less production from the winger?

That wouldn’t be good for a group that struggled last year and is serious about ramping things up this year.

Grade: D+

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