One of the most disliked defensemen to Connor Bedard to join the team?
Photo credit: Ed Mulholland.
Infamous for his January hit on Blackhawks star Connor Bedard, which sidelined the promising player for 14 games, Smith finds himself at a career crossroads.
Despite the controversy, he could potentially offer great value to a Chicago team in need of defensive depth.
Smith, at 35, remains a robust stay-at-home defenseman. His career, spanning over a decade, showcases a player well-versed in the rigors of NHL play.
After a hit that may have marred his reputation among Chicago fans, the question arises: could Smith be the missing piece for the Blackhawks' defensive strategy?
Background and Career
Drafting into the league in 2007 by the Detroit Red Wings, Smith made his NHL debut in 2011.
His journey through the NHL includes stints with Detroit, New York, Carolina, and most recently, New Jersey, amassing 694 games over his career.
Not just a player, Smith hails from a family embedded in hockey culture, with his brother Reilly Smith playing forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Despite his solid career statistics, including a commendable 117 hits and 101 blocked shots last season, Smith's style of play has sometimes led to costly penalties and defensive errors.
However, his experience and physicality could bring a stabilizing presence to a Blackhawks team eager to blend veteran leadership with rising talents like Wyatt Kaiser, Ethan Del Mastro, and Nolan Allan.
Teammate's Resilience and Respect
Following the hit on Bedard, a fight broke out between Smith and Nick Foligno, who defended his teammate's honor. Despite the tensions, Foligno later praised Smith's integrity on the ice:
I think Smith's an honest player. I have a ton of respect for him. I think he plays the game the right way.
This acknowledgment from a peer highlights the professional respect Smith commands, despite the occasional controversy.
Future Considerations and Personal Stakes
As free agency approaches, Smith's personal life has also garnered attention with his $2.95 million home hitting the market, fueling speculation about his next moves. Although no talks with New Jersey have commenced regarding an extension, Smith remains hopeful about his NHL future:
It's true the house is on the market, but no inkling to free agency. Haven't started negotiations with NJ at this time. Personally I hope (I'm) not hanging up the skates. I love it here. I do want to be back. But, more than that, I want to be back in the NHL. So we'll see how that goes.
Smith's situation epitomizes the life of a seasoned NHL player�balancing on-ice performance with off-ice decisions, all while navigating the uncertain waters of professional sports.
For the Blackhawks, acquiring Smith could mean more than just adding a defenseman; it could signal a commitment to experience and resilience, qualities necessary to compete at the highest levels of hockey.
| POLL | ||
2 JUIN | 40 ANSWERS One of the most disliked defensemen to Connor Bedard to join the team? Would it be appropriate for the Hawks to sign Brendan Smith? | ||
| Yes | 22 | 55 % |
| No | 18 | 45 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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