Chicago Blackhawks: 5 Observations from Wednesday's Preseason Game

The Chicago Blackhawks will have a long way to go this season, as most teams do, and there is still a lot of work to do. There were a few things that became clear in last night’s game against the Detroit Red Wings. 

The preseason is starting to come to an end and some questions are becoming answers.  Here are a few things that were evident from last night’s game.

Hossa Looks Fit

Both Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane took part in their first taste of preseason action last night. Hossa was handling the puck well in certain situations and he, Kane and Andrew Brunette were able to create a number of chances. 

There were times when he was a little out of position, but a lot of that may have been getting used to playing with Kane as his center.  

It was great to see him score on a one-timer during the Hawks' two-man advantage in the third period off a great feed from Kane. 

It has been a long offseason for "Hoss," but he will be a force to be reckoned with this season.  Count on it.  

Patrick Kane Was Decent at Center

He was not overwhelming as a five-on-five center, but I actually expected much less from Kaner playing at center.  The wrist was also a concern, but Kaner dispelled that quickly.     

On the power play he was terrific.  He scored in the first frame and his release was as quick as it could be when he fired a wrist-a-bomb through the legs of Ty Conklin.  He added an assist later on a Hossa blast. 

At center, he did take a bad penalty while back-checking in the first period, but he was in solid receiving position through the neutral ice and won a few draws.  I’m still not sure he is the answer as a second-line center, but it’s clear he understands the movement and responsibilities of that position.  

Nick Leddy's Game Has Improved

He looks steady out there, and he has been in very good position in the defensive zone.  

While many were concerned with his offensive output and whether or not he would be able to replace Brian Campbell, Leddy has showed in the last two preseason games that he focused on the right things during the offseason.  Simply put, he focused on being a better defenseman and it shows. 

Another strong outing from Leddy last night all but solidifies his position in the top six and possibly the top four.

Sami Lepisto Will Not Be in the Top 6

Sami Lepisto looked lost Wednesday night.  He was out of position consistently is his own zone, particularly on Detroit’s third goal.  He completely lost track of his man in front of the net and looked as if he was desperately hoping to get a stick on the puck. 

I was more hopeful that Lepisto would be a pleasant surprise this year but perhaps, wrongly so. Bowman did consider it a depth signing. 

When the season begins, Lepisto could be up with the club, but it will be with the black aces in the press box most nights.  If not, he could use some work in Rockford.

Brandon Saad Should Be Sent Back to His Junior Team

He had a wonderful experience this preseason and certainly will be an asset in the future.  At 18 years old, it’s time to remember that he is a player of the future and send him back to the Saginaw Spirit for another season.  

He was not a factor in the game last night and that is the second game in a row this has been the case.  That is certainly not a knock on him, and his inconsistencies at this level should be expected from a player that young.  

He is enormously talented and could be a regular fixture in the Hawk lineup as early as next season.  For now, let’s let him develop and look ahead to seeing him again this time next year. 

One last thing.  Let’s hope Ben Smith is alright following the head shot he took Wednesday.  He was playing very well and looked like he was poised to earn a roster spot.  He clearly looked out of it as he was being aided on the ice.  

Brendan Shanahan has been busy and should be with this latest incident as well.

Thanks for reading.