Chicago Blackhawks Bandwagon Test

Former Chicago Blackhawks right wing Martin Havlat (9) shoots the puck against the Washington Capitals during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

A lot of familiar names here, if you’re a true Hawks fan. Tuomo Ruutu spent over three rough years with a horrible Blackhawks’ team. Ruutu was sixth-place in Calder Trophy voting in 2003-2004, before having to sit out his sophomore season due to the NHL Lockout. Ruutu stayed with the team until 2008, when the team traded him to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Martin Havlat was the first player I truly enjoyed watching on the poor Blackhawks’ teams. Havlat joined the Hawks in 2006, and immediately became the team’s best player. As exciting as he was fast, Havlat just couldn’t stay healthy until 2008-2009, when he played in 81 regular season games. After that season Havlat left for the Minnesota Wild, and eventually the San Jose Sharks.

Aucoin wears an “A” with Columbus, but did he ever wear a “C” with Chicago? Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Adrian Aucoin came to the Hawks with much fan-fare. The season before, Aucoin finished high in Norris Trophy voting, and immediately became much worse. Aucoin’s worst seasons as a pro were spent with the Hawks, as he was a combined -35 in just two seasons with the club. He also was injured both seasons. But, he was also the most skilled defenseman on the team, and a veteran leader for younger guys like Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook.

Finally, Radim Vrbata spent only a season and a half in Chicago, but still put up 75 points in 122 games. Vrbata has had plenty of good seasons after leaving the Hawks, including four 20-goal campaigns. But did he do enough to become captain in his time with the Hawks?