Blackhawks fans, get the scoop on prospects’ performances and the Chicago Blackhawks’ exciting season ticket sweepstakes!

Good morning and happy Monday, Chicago Blackhawks fans.

There’s Hawks news to talk about—and let’s be real, we all need a distraction from the Bears’ performance on Sunday. Prospects played hockey over the weekend, and there’s a signing to talk about. But first, happy hour.

Blackhawks Happy Hour

3. Sweep Me Away

Interested in winning level-100 season tickets? The Chicago Blackhawks are launching a centennial sweepstakes that takes place at Union Station on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Read more about it in Tony Marchese’s article. Current and former Blackhawks will be there to hand out tickets.

2. Reichel, Do You Stay or Do You Go?

Last week, I discussed how Lukas Reichel trade rumors swirled at the start of the offseason. Guess what. They’re back. Elliotte Friedman, in his 32 Thoughts Podcast, speculated that the Chicago Blackhawks were interested in a trade partner if the right deal was out there.

1. Kirill the Thrill

What exactly is going on with Kirill Kaprizov? Frank Seravalli reported on Sept. 10 that Kaprizov turned down a monster eight-year $128 million deal. This would have made him the highest NHL player ever. Friedman speculated that Kaprizov doesn’t want a short-term deal and that another team may have sent a smoke signal that there’s a bigger deal out there.

More rumors include the Blackhawks as an interested party. With stupendous cap space (projected around $58 million next summer) and an ever-increasing salary cap, this is a superstar that you are okay with paying whatever it costs. Kirill is a perfect player to play on Connor Bedard’s wing. But does Kirill see a bright future in Chicago?

More Sports News

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Oct 5Minnesota Wild left wing Kirill Kaprizov (97) defends Chicago Blackhawks Taylor Hall (71) during the second period at United Center.

Closing Time – News Recap

Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase

The Chicago Blackhawks have officially taken to the ice. Last week, the prospects began their practices for the Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase (more on that in a second). This week, training camp begins for the roster as a whole. That didn’t stop Connor Bedard and some of the Blackhawks from taking to the ice earlier than required.

The Blackhawks played two games in the Tom Kurvers Prospect Showcase over the weekend. The Hawks youth beat the St. Louis Blues’ meatheads (3-2 OT) and lost 3-2 to the Minnesota Wild’s classless boors. Artyom Levshunov looked great for most of his only game, which was against the Blues. Levshunov wasn’t perfect; he was on the ice for both goals against. Sam Rinzel also played one game, and he was the best player on the ice against the Blues. Oliver Moore was fast, and I’m very intrigued to see how he develops. Nick Lardis played both games and looked excellent. He didn’t score a goal, but had numerous chances and got the primary assist on this beautiful play (No. 76 in the clip below). And by the way, Stanyslav Berezhnoy had an amazing game in net against the Blues with a .940 SV%.

Spencer Knight Signs

Spencer Knight signed a three-year extension on Saturday. The three-year contract is worth $5.8 million per year, which you can read more about in the Blackhawk Cowboy’s article. I think it’s a great deal for both Knight and the Blackhawks. Kyle Davidson may have his No. 1 goaltender; however, I do think we need to see a lot more of Knight before we can definitely conclude that Knight is the guy.

What’s On Tap Next

Training camp with the pros starts this week, and preseason begins next week on Tuesday, Sept. 23. Be on the lookout for more team previews—the Toronto Maple Leafs are up next to begin my journey into the Eastern Conference. Expect NHL news to pick up because hockey is back, baby.

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