It’s safe to say the Blackhawks’ forward lines have been the talk of the offseason. With numerous additions including one of the best prospects ever, the attack in Chicago will look completely different in October than it did in April. However, it’s important to note that the Blackhawks’ defensive lines are also completely altered from last season. With a handful of players being shown the door, young prospects are being asked to take their place alongside seasoned veterans in hopes that they can usher in a new era of Chicago hockey. Below is how I project that mix to shake out come opening night.
Kevin Korchinski – Seth Jones
Alex Vlasic – Connor Murphy
Jarred Tinordi – Wyatt Kaiser
But What About…?
The first thing that jumps out on the projected lines are the players that aren’t on them – including Nikita Zaitsev. The Blackhawks took on Zaitsev’s bloated contract at the trade deadline from the Senators, and gained a few picks in the process. However, his performance last year was the definition of mediocre. It was clear he’s on the chopping block with one year left on his $4.5 million annual contract, and I foresee the Blackhawks moving on in favor of younger talent.
In his place, Wyatt Kaiser slides to the right side on the third line. It could be an uncomfortable switch for the left-hander, but GM Kyle Davidson and head coach Luke Richardson could see the change as worth it, gaining Kaiser valuable NHL experience. With a lack of right-handed defensemen, if Kaiser can make the switch, he’ll increase his value tremendously. He’ll pair well with the experience of Tinordi on the left side.
The Korchinski Konundrum
Perhaps the most important storyline to watch for the Blackhawks defense this year is what they decide to do with Korchinski. The seventh overall pick a year ago, Korchinski recently completed an 83-game season with the Seattle Thunderbirds where he was often the best player on the ice. He seemed to improve a lot throughout the season both intellectually and physically, as when IceHogs head coach Anders Sorensen was asked about Korchinski, he said he “looks thicker. Looks like a man.” The Blackhawks are finally ready for Korchinski to make the jump to the NHL, and they may end up slotting their prized possession onto the top defensive line.
Korchinski-Jones Tandem?
Korchinski’s skill set is unique in that he’s an offensive-minded defenseman that often uses the middle of the ice to make plays. While it can be an asset to his game and set up scoring chances for both himself and his teammates, his strategy could also be his biggest hindrance. As a 19-year-old, somewhat inexperienced prospect, it’s likely he’ll get caught out of position when he attacks the offensive zone, leaving his own area unguarded. Thus, his pairing on the top line with Seth Jones is a no-brainer. With 11 seasons of NHL experience under his belt, Jones is great positionally and couples his experience with strong mobility to usually keep him in the right place. His game would allow Korchinski to play to his strengths without costing his team much in the long run.
With numerous names hitting free agency, the Blackhawks are left with a mashup of NHL talent and high-upside prospects. The young group has yet to prove itself, but combinations like Korchinski-Jones and Kaiser-Tinordi could allow the young players to grow and create a dominant unit for years to come.
*Thus, his pairing with Connor Murphy is a no-brainer
I’m seeing a Keith/Seabrook tandem in the very near future.👍👍