Chicago Blackhawks: 5 Positives Stemming from Ben Smith's Arrival

Welcome back, Ben Smith. It's about time you got here.

The Chicago Blackhawks made a roster move Thursday, recalling Smith, Chicago's sixth-round pick in the 2008 NHL Draft. The 23-year-old former Boston College standout will likely be making his season debut with the 'Hawks in Calgary Friday night.

Fans of Smith's playoff performance last spring versus Vancouver are hoping the fireplug forward can add a similar spark to Chicago. The Blackhawks, who are currently riding a four-game win streak, sent little-used Rostislav Olesz to Rockford after he cleared waivers a day ago.

Is this an upgrade for the 'Hawks? You bet. Even for a team on top of the league right now, Smith is a welcome addition to the Blackhawks as they hope to keep rolling on the road.

Smith's call-up is a big positive, both for Chicago and Smith. Here are five reasons for optimism on all fronts as Smith prepares to hit the ice.

Smith Adds Versatility to the Lineup

One thing the 'Hawks like is a versatile forward.

Smith is not only capable of lining up at center or wing, he could see time on several of the Chicago offensive lines. He skated some top-six minutes late last season, and can also utilize his strength in a checking role or on the fourth line.

Smith is just the type of player who Joel Quenneville likes to use in different places in the lineup. He may start on one of the bottom lines Friday, but don't be surprised to see him move up on occasion.

Smith Will Keep the Role Players on Their Toes

As I posted Thursday, Bryan Bickell's seat just got a bit hotter upon Smith returning to the club.

Bickell may not be the only one on notice, however.

Smith's presence means that there is going to be some competition for playing time. Guys like Bickell, Viktor Stalberg and Marcus Kruger are going to have to stay sharp to remain on the ice. With the role players working harder, it could solidify Chicago's depth as the season wears on.

Smith Works Cheap, Freeing Up Big Cap Dollars

Not only is Smith an upgrade over Olesz right now, sending Olesz to Rockford takes his $3.25 million paycheck off the 'Hawks' salary cap.

All of a sudden, GM Stan Bowman has about $6 million in cap space to work with. For a team looking to pick up that missing piece near the trade deadline in three months, the extra room affords many options.

Owner Rocky Wirtz is writing another huge check for a player not to play for the Blackhawks, bless his soul. Making it a bit easier to bear is that Smith's $812,500 price tag is pretty easy on the pocketbook.

Smith should prove to be a much better value than Olesz, who had skated in just six games this season.

Smith Gets the Shot He Earned in Training Camp

If things had gone to plan, it's probable that Marcus Kruger might be the new Blackhawk recalled this week.

Smith looked to have a spot on the roster as camp wound down. He was injured in the penultimate exhibition game with Detroit courtesy of a head shot by Red Wings prospect Brendan Smith.

Ironically, Brendan Smith made his debut Thursday night after serving his five-game suspension over three call-ups this season. Ben Smith had a goal and assist against the player who injured him in Rockford's 5-3 win over Grand Rapids November 9th.

It was just one of several solid outings for Smith, who had six goals and 10 points in just nine games for the Ice Hogs. Now Smith joins Kruger, who is adjusting well to the NHL after being recalled the opening weekend of the season.

Smith Gets to Finally Wear His New Number

Having been assigned No. 57 last season in two stints with the Blackhawks, Smith received a different sweater number in camp.

Watch for Smith to be the player wearing No. 28 for the 'Hawks Friday night.

That number was also worn by longtime Blackhawks great Steve Larmer, himself a sixth-round draft pick. It doesn't hurt to share a number with a player known for his durability, especially when you're coming off of a concussion.

The Blackhawks are set to have Smith in the lineup Friday night against the Flames. Let's see what impact his recall has on the team.