Blackhawks Retain Oliver Moore at Center, Optimize Minutes with Deeper Lineup
As the Chicago Blackhawks face the Carolina Hurricanes, their roster depth has reached new levels with key players returning. The lineup features centers Frank Nazar and Connor Bedard, along with Oliver Moore and veteran Jason Dickinson. Despite Dickinson’s recent illness, the team’s strategic approach showcases the versatility of their centers.
Enhancing the Lineup with Strategic Positioning
Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill emphasized the importance of equal workloads among the centers. With Moore, Bedard, Nazar, and Dickinson all capable of playing center, he mentioned that balancing their minutes will be crucial, especially with a demanding schedule ahead. On the importance of this strategy, Blashill stated, “I want four lines that can go out frequently.”
Centering the Lines
- Connor Bedard centered Ryan Greene and Andre Burakovsky.
- Frank Nazar centered Ilya Mikheyev and Tyler Bertuzzi.
- Oliver Moore centered Ryan Donato and Nick Lardis.
- Jason Dickinson’s absence allowed Nick Foligno to center Landon Slaggert and Colton Dach.
Blashill praised Moore’s development at center, revealing that his game has improved significantly since the shift from wing. Although the exact reasons for his growth are uncertain, it’s clear that Moore is stepping up in his new role.
Roster Dynamics and Future Adjustments
With Dickinson expected to return soon, the Blackhawks will need to make tough decisions. Teuvo Teravainen’s recovery from an upper-body injury adds another layer of complexity to the roster. The potential return of these players may force one or two forwards down to Rockford.
Possible Candidates for Demotion
Players exempt from waivers include:
- Nick Lardis – 5 points in 18 games
- Landon Slaggert – 5 points in 23 games
- Colton Dach – 9 points in 48 games
Lardis may particularly benefit from additional playing time in the AHL. Although Dach adds toughness to the roster, continued improvement in his skating has been emphasized by Blashill, who indicated that Dach must “skate to disrupt” to amplify his on-ice impact.
Managing the Lineup During a Busy Schedule
As the season progresses, maintaining player health and performance will be vital. The Blackhawks will have three scheduled games during the NHL’s Olympic break, providing potential opportunities for temporary assignments to Rockford. However, Blashill has suggested that some rest may be more beneficial than additional playtime.
The Role of Depth Players
Jake Lafferty, currently a healthy scratch, may pass through waivers if the Blackhawks choose to explore roster changes. Despite his limited ice time, Lafferty’s positive attitude and team spirit have garnered respect from his teammates. Blashill commented on his professionalism, saying, “He never lets it take away from the team.”
As the team adapts to injury returns and seeks to optimize their lineup, the Blackhawks are poised to navigate the challenges ahead effectively. With a deeper roster and improved strategic planning, they are ready to contend in a crowded schedule.
