Chicago Blackhawks: 5 burning questions for 2018-19 season

CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 17: Brent Seabrook #7 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks down the ice in the second period against the Washington Capitals at the United Center on February 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Washington Capitals 7-1. (Photo by Chase Agnello-Dean/NHLI via Getty Images) /

4 of 5

Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images /

2. Where Does Alex DeBrincat Fit In?

Alex DeBrincat was a huge bright spot for the Chicago Blackhawks last season. In his rookie season, the 5-foot-7 wing posted 28 goals and 52 points. Along with Schmaltz, he made an otherwise painful season much more bearable.

The Blackhawks need to decide where he’s going to play in the lineup. Will it be on the top forward line? In an admittedly small sample size of about 200 five-on-five minutes, DeBrincat did quite well with Jonathan Toews. The Hawks controlled over 55 percent of the scoring chances and outscored their opponents 12-8 when the duo was on the ice. DeBrincat could add much-needed elements of offense and skill to their top forward line.

Another option is putting Kane with Toews, allowing DeBrincat to play with Schmaltz on the second line. However, Kane didn’t put up very good results on the first line when Quenneville decided to try putting his two stars together. That said, given their history together, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them reunited for at least the start of the season.

Regardless of where DeBrincat plays in the lineup, he’s a crucial piece for the Blackhawks. Chicago’s bottom six forwards simply aren’t going to produce much, though maybe an infusion of young, skilled guys like Dylan Sikura will help. The Blackhawks need their top two forward lines to drive their offense. Quenneville has to quickly figure out where DeBrincat’s going to help the team the most.

Home/Chicago Blackhawks