Chicago Blackhawks: Three reasons Quenneville should’ve stayed
Reason #3: Defense hasn’t been good enough
The Blackhawks have had ongoing defensive issues dating back two seasons. Last season, the defense was a glaring weakness and the team missed the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. This was compounded when Crawford was injured most of the season and the team didn’t have an elite goalie to bail them out.
This season hasn’t been much different on the defensive front. The team ranks in the bottom 10 of the NHL in both goals and shots against. During this five-game losing streak, the team has allowed 22 goals. This is a problem that is clearly bigger than just the head coach.
It’s true that Quenneville’s style of grinding play isn’t working as well as it has in recent years. His juggling of line combinations has also been a source of frequent criticism. However, I don’t believe that these are problems that will make this team breakout when fixed. The talent just isn’t there on this roster.
The Blues visit the United Center on Nov. 14. Wouldn't it be something if Joel Quenneville was behind the visitors bench?
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) November 6, 2018
It’s a hard truth, but once-elite defensemen like Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook have clearly slowed with age and excessive ice time. The one bad thing about Keith’s ironman mentality in the playoffs is that he can’t do anything to take the wear and tear away. But again, three Stanley Cups.
It’s a bittersweet moment for the Blackhawks and their fans. It’s nice to look back on fond memories of the multiple cup wins. However, it’s clear now that the team may be entering a rebuild mode by naming a young replacement who’s only head coaching experience is in the AHL.
Next. Quenneville fired, but Hoiberg still employed?. dark
For now, there are many more questions than answers about the Blackhawks. It’s a very real possibility that this team misses the playoffs again this season. Keep checking Da Windy City for more updates on the situation.