The Chicago Blackhawks had a relatively quiet July 1st, particularly at the beginning, as they only signed two players. They did, however, make some noise later in the day when they unexpectedly signed Robin Lehner, who was a pretty big fish in the market. There had been no reports linking the two, and the ‘Hawks have Corey Crawford in net already, but I think this was a smart signing for them. It was not surprising they were mostly quiet though, as they are a team that’s stuck somewhere between rebuilding and being in the playoffs, and it was smarter for them to sit back and figure themselves out than to go out and make a big, costly signing that they would come to regret. But anyways, here’s a recap of their day and a short write-up on each new Blackhawk.
- Ryan Carpenter, F. Carpenter was signed to a three-year, $3 million contract ($1 million AAV). He appeared in 68 games for the Vegas Golden Knights last season, in which he recorded five goals and 13 assists. He did not appear in any playoff games for them this postseason. Signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Jose Sharks before the 2015-16 season, Carpenter has appeared in 132 career NHL games, during which he has produced 16 goals and 21 assists. The 28-year-old center is on this third team over his four-year career.
- Robin Lehner, G. Lehner was signed to a one-year, $5 million contract. In 46 games for the New York Islanders last season, Lehner had a 2.13 GAA and 0.930 SV%. He also appeared in eight playoff games for the team, in which he posted a 2.00 GAA and 0.936 SV%. He and Thomas Greiss combined to win the William M. Jennings trophy last season as well, which is given to the goaltending tandem that allows the fewest goals over the course of the season. Drafted in the second round (46th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators, Lehner has appeared in 265 career NHL games, over which he owns a 2.70 GAA and 0.918 SV%. The 27-year-old netminder is on his fourth organization over his nine-year career.
This post will be updated if and when the ‘Hawks make any more signings.
Hockey Addict 