The 2023-24 NHL offseason has been a whirlwind of activity, with teams across the league maneuvering vigorously to sharpen their rosters for the upcoming season. Even before the Florida Panthers clinched the Stanley Cup, franchises were already deep into strategizing to fortify their lineups, and none more fervently than the Chicago Blackhawks. Emerging as one of the offseason's most proactive teams, the Blackhawks are making significant moves that promise to reshape their immediate future.
Key Signings and Trades
The offseason has been highlighted by several notable transactions, including the Tampa Bay Lightning acquiring Jake Guentzel from the Carolina Hurricanes. This pivotal move was bittersweet for Lightning fans as they had to bid farewell to their iconic captain, Steven Stamkos. Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks have taken a strategic approach to their acquisitions, drawing attention across the league.
Chicago Blackhawks: Boosting the Roster
With an eye on transforming their fortunes, the Blackhawks have made a series of key signings and trades. In terms of net goals above replacement (GAR), the team's net GAR addition stands at an impressive plus-56.5. This is a stark contrast to last season, where they struggled with a GAR of 12.0, an offense GAR of minus-13.2, a defense GAR of 18.6, and a goalies GAR of 6.6. Their previous season struggles were apparent as they finished at the bottom of the league in scoring, with a mere 2.17 goals per game.
New Additions Upfront
Teuvo Teravainen, a notable addition with a GAR of 12.3, heads the list of new Blackhawks expected to impact significantly. Alongside him, Tyler Bertuzzi, with a GAR of 7.2, and Ilya Mikheyev, with a GAR of 3.6, are anticipated to fortify the team’s offensive capabilities. Complementing these signings are Craig Smith, with a GAR of 3.3, and Alec Martinez, with a GAR of 3.2, who bring depth and experience.
Defensive Reinforcements
Defensively, the Blackhawks faced significant challenges last season, allowing the fifth-most shots per game. In a bid to stabilize their backline, the team brought in TJ Brodie, whose GAR stands at 5.4. Brodie's addition is expected to provide much-needed stability and veteran presence.
In-goal, the Blackhawks have signed Laurent Brossoit, with a GAR of 10.4, to form a promising tandem with Petr Mrazek. This move significantly boosts their net defense GAR by plus-15.5 and their net goalie GAR by plus-10.4.
Notable Departures
While the Blackhawks have fortified their roster, they have also bid farewell to several players. Sam Lafferty, with a GAR of 3.6, and Colin Blackwell, with a GAR of 0.5, are among those who have parted ways with the team. Additionally, Taylor Raddysh, MacKenzie Entwistle, and Reese Johnson will no longer wear Blackhawks jerseys.
Looking Ahead
All signs point to a rejuvenated Blackhawks team ready to climb the standings. Their net offense GAR now stands at a considerable plus-30.6, bolstered by their substantial overall GAR addition. As the dust settles on the offseason, one thing is clear—the Chicago Blackhawks are poised to make a significant impact. With strategic acquisitions and a renewed focus on both ends of the ice, they are a team to watch as the new season approaches.