New Additions
Sean O’Donnell- He was signed this offseason and will probably used on the third pairing.
Steve Montador- He was also signed this offseason and will also be used on the third defensive pairing. He might switch off rolls with O’Donnell or both of them will be used at once.
Sami Lepisto- He was signed to solidify the fact that Chris Campoli would not be returning. He will probably play on the second or third pairing this season.
The Young Ones
Niklas Hjalmarsson- He has been with the Hawks for a couple years now and is looking to have a breakout season. Now that some players have moved on, Hjalmarsson will have a bigger role on the team and could have a breakout season this year.
Nick Leddy- He didn’t play the whole season last year, but he will this year. He showed that he has a lot of talent and can be a very good defenseman last year. He has some things to improve on, but will be very good in the future.
The Veterans
Brent Seabrook- He has been consistently good in the past few years. He will probably continue to be good as long as his linemate can be good too.
Duncan Keith- After winning the Norris trophy last year, he didn’t perform well the next season. Now that he is rested and doesn’t have the pressure of being the Norris winner, he should have another good season.
Breakout Player
I think it will be Hjlamarsson. He doesn’t have Campbell as his linemate anymore and will get more attention. He is more important to the team this year, so he will probably step up and have a good season.
Predictions
The defense will be one of the strong points for the Blackhawks this season. Seabrook and Keith are one of the best pairings in the NHL, but now the Hawks have depth at defense and will be much better in that area.
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