Chicago Blackhawks using Lockout to the Benefit of AHL Affiliates -NHL Update
There is no question about the benefit of preparing future National Hockey League (NHL) players ahead of time and for the Chicago Blackhawks, there is not a better moment to do it but during the lockout that has so many people on the edge.
While some clubs may be downsizing due to the bleak financial outlook in case of a long term lockout, but the Chicago Blackhawks are utilising all their staff members to assist their affiliates in the minor, American Hockey League (AHL) and look at how potential
candidates for future entry drafts are doing.
The Rockford IceHogs of the AHL have been benefitting, without a doubt, and they certainly hope that all this extra attention by their major league affiliate will pay off in the end.
"I've spent a fair amount of time there the last few weeks and it's been very rewarding," team president, John McDonough, said, according to the Chicago Tribune. "I had a chance to address the group (Thursday) and talk to a lot of our players individually
and really the message was, 'the spotlight is going to be on this group.' It's all about opportunities right now. We want to see these guys ascend to the next level.”
Joel Quenneville, head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, is also reported to be in touch with IceHogs coach, Ted Dent. Both officials have been known to keep close contact during the regular season, but the major league coach is now investing his time in
discussing which players seem to be playing the best along with which line combinations are having the most impact on their performance.
Scouts are also getting in on the scene according to some of the players as they hope to make these impressions count, ultimately benefitting them and the minor league as well.
While there might not be any confirmation on when the lockout may come to an end, players around different circles are trying to take advantage of having the major league eyes on them and make a lasting impression for their future, which just may be in the
NHL.
A lockout may not be something that is taken on a positive note, but everyone is just doing something to pass the time by in a positive and constructive manner.
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