NHL Season Preview 2016-17: Chicago Blackhawks
Could the 2016-17 season be the beginning of the end of the Chicago Blackhawks’ dynasty?
No team in the NHL has seen as much success since 2009 as the Chicago Blackhawks. With three Stanley Cups and two additional Western Conference Finals appearances, Chicago has emerged as a near-dynasty thanks to its star-studded core. Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith, and Marian Hossa have been around for each of the cup wins, and the team has done a terrific job in navigating the salary cap in recent years.
Sadly, things seem to be on the decline for the Blackhawks, who have paid for their three titles with some bad contracts. Though they have jettisoned most of them, they have given up prospects in order to do so. That is quite concerning for a team that heavily relies on young, cheap players. With 2015-16 Calder Trophy winner Artemi Panarin needing a new deal after this season, this could be the last hurrah for the Blackhawks’ dynasty. Chicago is coming off a first round exit in the playoffs after finishing with a 47-26-9 record, good for third in the Central Division.
Offseason Review
Additions: D Brian Campbell (Panthers), F Jordin Tootoo (Devils)
Losses: F Andrew Shaw (Canadiens), F Bryan Bickell (Hurricanes), C/F Teuvo Teravainen (Hurricanes), F Andrew Ladd (Islanders), F Dale Weiss (Flyers)
Retained: F Richard Panik, F Michal Rozsival
