4 Things Blackhawks Fans Should Be Thankful For in 2022

Losers of four straight, it’s easy to dwell on the negatives as the Chicago Blackhawks approach the quarter mark of the 2022-23 season. But with Thanksgiving approaching, it’s also a good time to reflect on what Blackhawks fans can be thankful for.

Despite a less-than-stellar 6-9-3 record, there are many things the Blackhawks and their fans should appreciate. Here are four things fans should be thankful for in celebration of the holiday.

Luke Richardson

When Blackhawks general manager (GM) Kyle Davidson introduced Luke Richardson as head coach back in June, he said he hoped Richardson could be a long-term solution and remain at the helm when Chicago is competitive again. Over a month into the season, that’s looking like a good possibility.

We also can’t forget the goaltenders. Drew Commesso and Jaxson Stauber have shown potential at their respective levels, along with Arvid Söderblom, who has had a taste of NHL action this season. Ethan Del Mastro, Nolan Allan, and Sam Rinzel could all become above-average NHL defensemen, too.

Essentially, Chicago’s prospect pipeline is much improved compared to last year. Prospects aren’t sure things, but it’s hard not to be encouraged. With what will likely be a high first-round pick in next year’s draft, fans should be thankful to watch these prospects grow.

A Blackhawks New Era

I get it. Rebuilds aren’t easy, and they aren’t fun. There’s no guarantee this becomes a success either; just look at the Buffalo Sabres of the mid-to-late 2010s or the Ottawa Senators’ recent struggles, who looked poised to contend this season after years of rebuilding.

However, after last year’s Jenner & Block investigation and failed attempts to compete since their last normal playoff appearance in 2017, Chicago simply needed to go in a new direction. That began in 2020 when Danny Wirtz and Jaime Faulkner here hired and continued into this season, bringing in Davidson and Richardson. It’s early, but all have said the right things so far while displaying servant leadership, which has been nothing but encouraging.

Yes, there have been some tough pills to swallow, from trading DeBrincat to Eddie Olczyk’s departure. There will almost certainly be more to come, too. But there have also been some encouraging signs, both on and off the ice, from a revamped prospect pipeline to enhancing support with Native American communities to bringing in Chris Vosters as TV play-by-play announcer.

Why should fans be thankful for the team’s rebuild? It’s simple: the Blackhawks weren’t finding success under the old regime, and they needed to pivot. Be it trades, draft picks, or front-office decisions, not all these changes will be successful. However, improvement often only comes with change, and Chicago finally has a direction after years of being stuck in the mushy middle. Hopefully, it’ll result in another great era, no matter how long it takes.

Chicago fans have a lot to be thankful for. Sunday’s (Nov. 20) retirement ceremony for Marián Hossa was an excellent reminder of how good they had it for so many years. While this season’s club doesn’t resemble what the Blackhawks had during their dynasty-era days, the organization is moving in the right direction. As flawed as they are, there are many silver linings right now.