Hockey Season Is Back; Hawks Season Preview

Ahhh. The smell is in the air and if you have been around the sport of hockey before, you know that smell is one that will never seem to leave you. Hockey season. It seems like it was just days ago that I was on the verge of tears with my head hanging at a local tavern after watching the fluke ass goal that advanced the Kings to the Stanley Cup Finals. Another season and another chance for the Hawks to prove once again they are the best team in the world.

During the off season, the Hawks were able to lock up Kane and Toews with long term deal, which is obviously big for their future. There is no doubt they will be a playoff team for years to come.

This season, there are 2 names to keep an eye out for. Brad Richards and Teuvo Teravainen. One is one of the most simple and basic of names and the other is a real tongue twister.  One is also a proven vet and the other still has question marks surrounding him.

During the off season I enjoy watching classic games on NHL Network and one of those a couple weeks ago was the '04 Cup Finals when the Lightning topped the Flames. Yes, it took me a minute to believe the Flames and Lightning were once relevant. One of the most relevant players during that season was the 24-year-old Brad Richards who won the Conn Smythe. Obviously Brad is not 24 anymore, but he will still contribute to this Hawks team and could be a difference maker once the playoffs roll around.

On the other hand we have Teuvo, who is gaining all kinds of hype for this Kane-like abilities. If you know me, you know I am not going to get too hyped for this kid. Yes, he has potential but in the limited amount of action he has played with the big club, he hasn't done a whole lot. He is also beginning training camp day-to-day and doesn't seem to have the personal drive to make the Hawks starting roster, to me he almost seems content with playing in Rockford for a year or so. All I am saying is don't get too over hyped on "turbo", the hawks have enough good young talent that we don't need to pressure this kid into being something he isn't.


Remember this Franklin the Turtle looking guy?

Believe it or not,  Cam Barker has the chance to be the Hawks 6th D man. I've never been a huge fan of Barker but then again, I don't think I can name a 6th defenseman who I am a fan of. I can tell you one thing for sure, it is better than bringing Brent Sopel back.




Nothing says hockey season is here more than the two best looking guys in Chicago with scars and stitches on their mugs.