The Chicago Blackhawks’ downfall last season was the lack of a competent defense. The mileage on the legs of the defensemen showed in the second half of the season, which ultimately put the ’Hawks out of the playoffs early.
The front office took note of this during the offseason by signing some young talented defensemen to contracts within the system, and by going out and obtaining Brian Campbell from the Florida Panthers.
With only 23 open spots for the NHL squad, some players will have to be sent down to Rockford. Here are the defensemen who will make the team after the top four defensemen of Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook, Niklas Hjalmarsson and Campbell.