Looking Forward

So the last post dealt with the season that was for the Blackhawks. Now, let's look ahead to 09-10, and what we get to look forward to when the 'Hawks drop the puck in Finland against the Florida Panthers to kick off the season next fall.

The first order of business is to take care of the free agents on the roster, and there are plenty:
Unrestricted:
Nikolai Khabibulin: The 'Bulin Wall had his best season in his last year of his deal that he signed four years ago with the Blackhawks. He emerged as the #1 goaltender on the team and started every playoff game, before hurting himself at the end of the second period in Game 3 against Detroit. Despite whatever happened this year, Khabi will be too expensive to keep and should have played his last game with the 'Hawks. They signed Christobal Huet to big money last year and he needs to be the real #1. The duo star goalie thing won't work again. Corey Crawford deserves to be on the team as the backup. The 'Hawks will save some money by letting Khabi walk.

Sammy Pahlsson: A big help down the stretch, Pahlsson did what he was supposed to after the 'Hawks traded for him. If they can retain him, it would certainly help next year. At the same time, they might be able to find someone else to replace him cheaper. Depending on the price, they should bring him back.

Matt Walker: Walker was all right this year, but expect him to sign elsewhere. The 'Hawks might look to sign another blueliner, plus they seem high on Aaron Johnson. His signing should not be a priority for them.

Martin Havlat: Here's the big one. This is the #1 priority this summer. They must re-sign Martin Havlat. He showed what he is capable of when he's healthy. And though his health is not a guarantee, it's a risk they must take. He led the team in points, saved the team in the Vancouver series, and proved himself to be the best player on the ice at certain times for either team. Havlat seems to want to return, so perhaps a hometown discount could come into play, but even if it doesn't, they absolutely have to retain him.

Restricted :
Dave Bolland: Locking up Bolland for a number of years ahead should be a priority. He developed as the season went on, was excellent in the playoffs, and is the defensive center the team needs, especially if Pahlsson isn't back.

Kris Versteeg: I feel like Versteeg will only get better, and possibly be able to replace Havlat in 3-5 years. Trying to sign him up for a few years right now should also be a priority. He can only improve from here.

Troy Brouwer: Brouwer did all right in his first full season. He has upside, so they should try to retain him, even if they have to match another team's offer.

Cam Barker: They traded Wisniewski because they eventually would not have been able to keep both. So now they have to keep Cam Barker. He is great on the power play and is coming off his best season. Plus, he is a big presence on the blue line.

Ben Eager: Similar to Brouwer's situation, try to keep Eager if you can. He is an excellent complement to Adam Burish.

In the meantime, adding another center or defenseman, even if it means trading inconsistent Dustin Byfuglien, will be important. Also, if it fits the cap, trying to extend the contracts of Toews, Kane, and Keith is imperative. Even if they only can lock up one of them, it would make the offseason a success in terms of looking ahead.

As for the team, contention for the Central Division Championship should be the goal to begin the year. They are experienced enough now to where they can compete with Detroit for the top spot in the division. That's the first order of business, as they should worry about the playoffs when they get there.

The goaltender situation, which most likely will be with the definitive #1 and backup will work out. Huet gets better as he gets work, and he will start the majority of the games. Crawford will be a capable backup.

One key that might get overlooked is that the team gets to go through camp and the pre-season under Coach Q's direction this time. This can only help them as they get ready for the season. They will be used to his style and I expect them to come out of the gates on fire next year.

Nothing is holding the team back now. Re-sign Havlate and whoever else they can, and the Blackhawks will be ready to go in October. Ready to join the league's elite, contend for a division title, and ready for more playoff hockey.