Blackhawks GM issues message on the current state of the rebuild
PUBLICATION
MarcOMay 13, 2024 (10:18 PM)
Photo credit: foxnews.com
Kyle Davidson issues message on length of organizations rebuilding plans
In a recent dialogue with Mully & Haugh, GM Kyle Davidson shed light on the Blackhawks' strategy for the forthcoming 2024 NHL Entry Draft in Las Vegas.
Known for its defense-heavy prospects, this year's draft poses a unique opportunity for teams, and Davidson's insights suggest the Blackhawks are poised to make significant strides.
Davidson expressed a robust confidence in the current trajectory of the team's rebuild. Contrary to what might be expected in such a pivotal draft, he indicated that the Blackhawks are not confined to targeting a specific position.
«We want to take the next step here and progress,» Davidson remarked, asserting a shift in the team's rebuilding phase.
The emphasis is clear: the Blackhawks aim to move beyond their recent standings and set higher benchmarks for success.
«We don't want to finish where we finished this year moving forward. That's not what we're looking to do anymore. It's something we're going to be conscious of moving forward. Hopefully we can see a little more success and some positive steps in the standings and on the ice here moving forward,»
Davidson detailed during the interview.
Strategically, Davidson is not promising an overnight transformation into a Stanley Cup contender but is committing to improvement. «I don't know how many points or standing slots that is, but we can't finish second-last in the league,» he explained.
The goal is to elevate the team's performance gradually but consistently. «I think the standard has to be raised. The expectation has to be raised. Through that, accountability will be raised. That's the nature of the path we're on. Eventually, we have to start making positive steps. And I think we've reached that point,» Davidson conveyed.
Moreover, Davidson's strategy for the upcoming draft reflects a broader philosophy of competition and accountability within the team.
«We want to create battles,» Davidson said. «We want training camp competition for spots. And that comes with a little bit of addition and honesty with the players, both veteran and young, that you're all fighting for the same spot. Your experience level, your age, where you're at in your career, whether you're new here or not, that's not going to play a role into if you're on the team come day one. You're going to determine if you're on the team based on your play in camp. Part of that is players we bring in.»
The intention is to foster a competitive atmosphere in training camp, where roster spots are earned based on performance rather than past credentials or tenure with the team.
With nine first-round picks in their arsenal, the Blackhawks are in an enviable position to bolster their roster with top-tier talent.
The focus on selecting the best player available, rather than filling specific gaps, aligns with Davidson's vision of building a competitive and resilient team. This approach also resonates with his broader strategy of infusing the team with fresh talent capable of elevating the Blackhawks' competitive edge.
As the Blackhawks gear up for the draft in Las Vegas, the sense of anticipation is palpable. With a clear vision and a strategic approach to rebuilding, the franchise is setting the stage for a new era of Blackhawks hockey�one that promises gradual improvements and a climb up the league standings.
Davidson's prudent yet optimistic outlook serves as a beacon for fans and players alike, signaling exciting times ahead for the team.
| POLL | ||
13 MAI | 74 ANSWERS Blackhawks GM issues message on the current state of the rebuild Will the Blackhawks acquire a competent player with nine picks in the initial round? | ||
| Yes | 69 | 93.2 % |
| No | 5 | 6.8 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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