The Chicago Blackhawks and San Jose Sharks have been on a similar path to rebuild their teams, but signs of divergence have emerged this season. Both teams invested heavily in youth and prospects, enduring tough seasons to snag top draft picks, but now appear to be heading in different directions.
While the Sharks seem to be gaining momentum with 58 points in 52 games, trailing only the Ducks by one point for a Western Conference wild-card spot. The Blackhawks, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistency, sitting behind the Sharks in the standings despite being on pace for significant improvement from last season.
However, the difference between the two teams is largely attributed to their success in overtime and shootout games. The Sharks boast an 11-4 record in such situations, while the Blackhawks are just 5-9.
The Blackhawks' general manager, Kyle Davidson, has taken a more patient approach, focusing on developing young players like Connor Bedard and Anton Frondell. In contrast, the Sharks have shifted into "buyer" mode under GM Mike Grier, trading for veteran forward Kiefer Sherwood in December. Now, they're reportedly interested in acquiring Rangers star Artemi Panarin.
Grier's willingness to spend on prime-aged players like Panarin suggests that the Sharks intend to make a push for the playoffs this season. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, are expected to remain sellers before the trade deadline, clearing roster spots for younger prospects like Nick Lardis.
Hawks fans have been critical of Davidson's rebuild, feeling that it has been too slow and might be instilling a losing culture. However, a recent poll of 2,238 Hawks fans found that 59.8% believe the rebuild is "moving at the right pace." A similar poll in October yielded a 53% response.
The debate surrounding Bedard's development versus Celebrini's has become a topic of discussion among fans. While Celebrini seems to be gaining an edge, it's unclear whether this will be sustained throughout their careers.
Ultimately, the Hawks and Sharks are taking different approaches to rebuild their teams. The Blackhawks are focusing on developing young players, while the Sharks are making a push for the playoffs with veteran acquisitions like Panarin. Only time will tell how these strategies play out in the coming years.
While the Sharks seem to be gaining momentum with 58 points in 52 games, trailing only the Ducks by one point for a Western Conference wild-card spot. The Blackhawks, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistency, sitting behind the Sharks in the standings despite being on pace for significant improvement from last season.
However, the difference between the two teams is largely attributed to their success in overtime and shootout games. The Sharks boast an 11-4 record in such situations, while the Blackhawks are just 5-9.
The Blackhawks' general manager, Kyle Davidson, has taken a more patient approach, focusing on developing young players like Connor Bedard and Anton Frondell. In contrast, the Sharks have shifted into "buyer" mode under GM Mike Grier, trading for veteran forward Kiefer Sherwood in December. Now, they're reportedly interested in acquiring Rangers star Artemi Panarin.
Grier's willingness to spend on prime-aged players like Panarin suggests that the Sharks intend to make a push for the playoffs this season. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, are expected to remain sellers before the trade deadline, clearing roster spots for younger prospects like Nick Lardis.
Hawks fans have been critical of Davidson's rebuild, feeling that it has been too slow and might be instilling a losing culture. However, a recent poll of 2,238 Hawks fans found that 59.8% believe the rebuild is "moving at the right pace." A similar poll in October yielded a 53% response.
The debate surrounding Bedard's development versus Celebrini's has become a topic of discussion among fans. While Celebrini seems to be gaining an edge, it's unclear whether this will be sustained throughout their careers.
Ultimately, the Hawks and Sharks are taking different approaches to rebuild their teams. The Blackhawks are focusing on developing young players, while the Sharks are making a push for the playoffs with veteran acquisitions like Panarin. Only time will tell how these strategies play out in the coming years.
I've been thinking about this rebuild business and it got me wondering... is it even possible to 'rebuild' an NHL team? Like, are we really starting from scratch or are we just rearranging the pieces on a chessboard? The Sharks' decision to go all-in for Panarin feels like a high-risk, high-reward move. Will they get the playoffs out of it or will it be another disappointing season? Meanwhile, the Blackhawks' focus on youth development might lead to long-term success, but at what cost? Are they sacrificing this year's playoff hopes for the sake of next year's contenders?
They're caught in the middle, torn between wanting their team to succeed now and being patient with the rebuild process. I mean, 59.8% believe the Hawks are moving at the right pace? That's a pretty high number, considering how polarized opinions tend to be on this topic. But maybe that's because we're all just looking for hope in a sport where teams can turn it around from one year to the next.
they're really making a move to get that playoff spot and it's so exciting!! I love how GM Grier is willing to spend big on players like Panarin, it shows he's not afraid to take risks 
. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are taking a more patient approach with Bedard and Frondell, but it's cool to see them trying out different strategies 
. Some fans might be worried about the rebuild being too slow, but 59.8% of Hawks fans think they're moving at the right pace 
... meanwhile, davidson's approach might just yield more long-term success for bedard and co 
. The Blackhawks' rebuild is taking forever and they're not even close to being competitive yet 
. Fans are getting frustrated and it's hard to blame them. Meanwhile, the Sharks are just throwing money at it and hoping for the best 
. I don't see how this "buyer" approach is going to pay off in the long run. And what's up with Bedard vs Celebrini? It feels like they're being set up for a disappointment 
. The Blackhawks are takin' it slow and steady with Connor Bedard and Anton Frondell, seein' 'em develop into solid players for the future. Meanwhile, the Sharks are goin' all in, tradin' up for vets like Kiefer Sherwood and Artemi Panarin 
. I think both approaches have merit, you know? The Blackhawks are buildin' a strong foundation, while the Sharks are lookin' to make some noise in the playoffs this year 
️. And hey, who doesn't love a good trade deadline shake-up 
! It's all part of the game, and I'm here for it 
.
.