3. How much can the Blackhawks improve this season?
After a difficult second season in which the Blackhawks finished eighth in the Central Division, they have no choice but to move up.
Last season, the Blackhawks ranked 32nd in the NHL in goals scored per game (2.17) and 29th in goals allowed per game (3.52). Part of the reason they made these acquisitions is to improve each number.
Tyler Bertuzzi And Teuvo Teravainen should add more offense. Bertuzzi had 43 points (21 goals, 22 assists) in 80 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs last season. Teravainen had 53 points (25 goals, 28 assists) in 76 games with the Carolina Hurricanes. They will also benefit from a healthy team Taylor Roomwho missed most of last season after undergoing ACL surgery in his right knee in November. He began skating late last season and will be ready to start training camp.
At defense, Martinez and Brodie add more veteran presence, and Laurent Brossoit strengthens the goalkeeper.
The moves were also made to provide more depth in case of injuries. The Blackhawks lost 351 games to injuries last season and often had to rely on Rockford players to fill the voids. They should be better equipped to handle any issues this season.
