Amid all the bluster and anger surrounding the Chicago Blackhawks’ first-round postseason exit — whether that comes from the fans, players or team management — is the reality the Blackhawks need to start looking ahead to 2017-18 and beyond.
Blackhawk Up’s Mario Tirabassi helpfully pointed out earlier this week the Blackhawks are in the midst of another youth movement — and a necessary one at that. However, if you look at the names Tirabassi listed in his piece, you’ll see a distinct theme.
Nick Schmaltz, Ryan Hartman, Vinnie Hinostroza, Tyler Motte, Tanner Kero, John Hayden, Alex DeBrincat, Alexandre Fortin, Matthew Highmore and Graham Knott — these guys are all forwards.