Jeff Blashill Imposes Rigor on the Blackhawks’ First Day of Training
The start of the Chicago Blackhawks training camp was not smooth, especially under the direction of Jeff Blashill. The initial practice was intense, with Blashill constantly giving instructions and advice.This adjustment is relatively minor for Blashill, who is getting his first real look at the team since he was hired as coach in May. His main task is to guide the team through a rebuilding process after a difficult season. The team has talent, led by Connor Bedard, but the Blackhawks will be one of the youngest teams in the NHL on opening day. Blashill has work ahead. Blashill’s goals for the camp are clear: build a solid culture, establish effective game systems, and define player positions. The intensity and pace of the first day of training were notable, with little rest and the coaching staff urging the players to prepare for each exercise.My feet are killing me. I haven’t been on the ice since April, so it was a tough adjustment. I don’t remember them hurting this much, but I guess that happens at every training camp.
Jeff Blashill
Bedard stated that the players were prepared for the demand. This is Blashill’s second chance to prove his worth as a head coach in the NHL. Before arriving at the Blackhawks, he had a stint with the Detroit Red Wings. Blashill will also draw on his experience as a coach in the minor leagues as he navigates the challenges of a young team.I loved everything about today. I think it sets the tone for what Blash wants, what our coaching staff wants, and the standard we want to have.
Nick Foligno
The Blackhawks began camp without veteran goaltender Laurent Brossoit, who has been out with injuries since signing a two-year contract. General Manager Kyle Davidson indicated that Brossoit will be out “long-term” after offseason hip surgery. The team acquired Spencer Knight in a trade in March and signed him to a contract extension last week. Arvid Soderblom will also be in goal.There are real comparisons to the experiences I had in the American Hockey League. In the end, a coach told me a long time ago that his best coaches made them do well, and we’re going to make our guys do well.
Jeff Blashill
