John McDonough is focused on the Chicago Blackhawks returning to the playoffs after missing the postseason for the first time since 2008. The Blackhawks president and chief executive officer said on WGN Radio on Tuesday that the team “making the playoffs is the top priority” heading into the 2017-18 NHL season.
“I’m optimistic. We had some variables we had to deal with, and there are no excuses because every team has injuries,” McDonough said. “With losing Corey Crawford in December and Marian Hossa not being able to play because of his skin condition, and some younger players we needed to step up in Alex DeBrincat, which he did.