Blackhawks: How Stan Bowman created a successful retool

The fact of the matter is that this Chicago roster has far too much talent to be a bottom-dweller in the NHL, and Stan Bowman recognizes this.

Lead by Patrick Kane, who is arguably the best offensive player in all of hockey, and a mixed core of young talent and seasoned veterans, there is no reason why the Chicago Blackhawks should be missing the playoffs. After two years of disappointing seasons, I believe that 2019-2020 will see the Blackhawks back in the playoffs.

Stan Bowman has taken a lot of criticism for the way he has handled things during his time as the general manager of the Chicago Blackhawks, however, the way he has assembled this roster to be successful now with the dynasty core still in tact while also accumulating talent to avoid a total rebuild in the future. The line between staying competitive in the present time and building for the future is a very fine one, and often times teams simply choose to pursue one direction or the other.

Although it is rarely a wise strategy in sports in general, the retool route is without a doubt the correct course of action for the Blackhawks to take. Chicago fans are ready to see this team back in the playoffs, as we are not used to seeing Kaner and company disappoint in any way. After two years, however, prepare to have expectations finally met.