Blackhawks: How Stan Bowman created a successful retool

Addressing the defensive core was the number one goal for the Blackhawks this Summer, and acquiring Olli Maatta was the first step in doing so.

The Olli Maatta trade was a very controversial one for the Blackhawks, as Dominik Kahun was a very good and popular young wing in Chicago. Kahun has found success in Pittsburgh, however, recording 16 points in 27 contests so far this season. His speedy goal scoring surely was an asset for the Hawks, however, the team was absolutely desperate for a shot-blocking, defensive-minded blueliner such as Maatta.

Maatta has done a good job in Chicago this point, as he has been able to continue to find success on the defensive end while also adding 8 points to his total for the season through 27 games. He was not brought to Chicago in order to put up Norris-level numbers, but to play a solid defensive role. With his solid offensive output, one could venture to say that Maatta has exceeded expectations in Chicago to this point, which provides doubters of this trade with some comfort.

As far as who “won” the trade, the deal is shaping up to be a wash. Pittsburgh was able to acquire a very solid young forward who is capable of putting up nice scoring totals. Although Kahun is certainly missed in Chicago, adding a defenseman to this aging group was an absolute necessity, and Maatta has done a very good job to this point in filling this gaping hole.