Deprecated: Automatic conversion of false to array is deprecated in /var/www/hockeybuzz.com/classes/clsBlog.php on line 243 HockeyBuzz.com - Zach Jarom - Camp is in Session!
Training camp is underway, and the excitement of hockey season is officially back. Nothing beats going on X (or Twitter, or whatever you call it) and seeing overreactions to line choices in practices. One thing I have taken from the little bit I have been able to see is that this is going to be a fun group to follow this year. From the rookies and young players trying to make a name for themselves in this league to the potential of generational talent Connor Bedard, all the way to the vets either playing for one more big contract or just enjoying their last few years in the league, from the few short days of camp, you can tell this group is already gelling well together. Nick Foligno was talking to reports about going to see Pearl Jam the night it was announced Chelios was going to the rafters, and he mentioned how he went with Bedard and had to teach him who Pearl Jam was because he had never heard of them before. That combo gives me a little bit of a Will Ferral/John C. Reiley Step-Brothers vibe. What I am trying to get at here is that while it might be a season to forget record-wise, I think this will be the year we start to see a culture change for the Blackhawks and a foundation being set for what this team's identity can be going forward. I am very optimistic for the team's future and very excited to see what the season brings.
Camp Notes
Nolan Allan
While the hype has been all about whether or not Korchinski is going to make this team, it looks like we better not overlook Nolan Allan. Just a few days into camp, and it appears he has made a huge impression on Coach Richardson. “He just looks like a hockey player. It looks like you can put him anywhere and he can play. He blocks shots, and he doesn’t even grimace. There’s not even a flinch on his face. He’s basically a man coming out of junior high. Now he just has to learn that NHL game.” (Coach Richardson via Ben Pope) It is always great to hear this kind of praise for young defensive prospects. Whether or not he makes the team out of the gate, fully expect him to get some playing time this season, especially if he is playing well in Rockford.
Kevin Korchinski
Speaking of Korchinski, again speaking with the media, Coach Richardson had some interesting takes about the status of where he will play this year. “If we have seven D, maybe it's beneficial for him to see from above, discuss some of his shifts from the last game, and really inch him along. Let's see how his progression goes in the exhibition games, and maybe he’ll be flying high and we won’t need to do that. It's always an option. (Coach Richardson via Ben Pope) Here is where I am torn again about what is best for his development. Playing another year in juniors, where he is just leaps and bounds better than his competition, might not help his game continue to develop. However, if he is going to be spending a lot of his time in the press box as a healthy scratch, could that do more damage for the young defender? Like Coach said, we will just have to see how the preseason goes before we overthink this anymore. Marian Hossa
There was a Hossa sighting today at camp, as the legend is in town. He was seen taking part in camp today with team higher-ups. Hossa did say he would one day work with the organization. Interesting. An associate general manager spot opens up, and next thing you know, he’s in town. I am totally joking here, or am I? Hey, whatever gets Hoss around this team more is fine with me!
That’s it for me today. I'll be checking in on any news that comes out this weekend and will be back if there is anything of note to talk about, but regardless, I will have my first season preview piece next week and will also include an interview I am doing with a former Hawk from the 2013 and 2015 Cup teams. Until then, go Hawks!
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