The Chicago Blackhawks are returning to the NHL franchise’s former glory – both on and off the ice.
The dynamic, young duo of Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are largely responsible for renewed optimism on the ice, while the front office situation and the team’s profile in the Windy City have improved dramatically under team president (and former Cubs executive) John McDonough and chairman Rocky Wirtz.
For the first time in the long history of the Blackhawks, every game this season will be televised on local television. And the team will host one the NHL’s marquee events of the 2008-09 season: the Winter Classic at Wrigley Field on New Year's Day.
Over the summer, the Blackhawks were able to add to the supporting cast for Kane and Toews, picking up high-profile offensive defenseman Brian Campbell and veteran netminder Cristobal Huet.
The ‘Hawks will also be relying on a repeat performance from sniper Patrick Sharp, who led the team with 32 goals last season. Look for Sharp to average over a point per game with the rejuvenated Blackhawks this season. They’ll also need a much-better year from Martin Havlat, who has struggled with ankle and shoulder injuries and is entering the final year of his deal. Chicago will also be hoping skilled forward Jack Skille earns a full-time roster spot this season.
But with improvement comes higher expectations, and there will be more pressure on the team to perform this season and make the playoffs. One of the Original Six teams, Chicago hasn't won had a Stanley Cup since 1961, and the many of the new, and returning, fans will be expecting some signs that the parade might not be far off.
The Blackhawks are at +2500 odds (25-1) to win the 2008-09 Stanley Cup in NHL future betting odds at Sportingbet.com.
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