Kevin Lankinen # 32, Chicago Blackhawks Mandatory credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Blackhawks are having a successful season as of now, and it is largely thanks to their newbies that they are playing so well.
Stan Bowman called for a rebuild in the past off season. He tried to prepare fans with the idea that things would get worse before they got better, but in 14 games this season, the Blackhawks have been thrilling and ready to go.
There are many pieces that can contribute to Chicago’s success. Coach Jeremy Colliton finally seems to have this group under control and playing the way he wants to. He is getting the effort and success of the players. The leaders in Kane and Keith have not given up on this group and continue to lead by example.
Hopefully, these two pieces would happen this season, regardless of the team’s success, the x factor involved was the young players. Bowman left the Blackhawks exposed this offseason when he switched Brandon Saad and did not bring Corey Crawford back.
His moves opened the door for new players to shine, and they definitely do. Let’s take a look at the five newbies who are leading the ‘Hawks to success.
Kevin Lankinen
Kevin Lankinen is making his own name on the network with the ‘Hawks. After starting this season as the last goalkeeper among the three goalkeepers competing for the Chicago network, Lankinen jumped to the top of the list and made a home for himself on the list.
Lankinen has been a very impressive goalkeeper so far in Chicago. In nine career games with the team he has a defensive percentage of 0.933 and a 5-1-3 record. Lankinen had not played a game in the NHL before this season.
This is an example where Stan Bowman seems to be right. Although it hurt to see a fan favorite like Corey Crawford leave town, it opened the door for someone new to come in and prove why they deserve the network.
It is important to note that Lankinen is not the only goalkeeper who has also played well. After some difficult games to reach the season, Subban seems to be putting things under control and has been playing better in later matches. If Subban could do well as a reserve goalkeeper, it would be great for the success of this team in the future.