3 Chicago Blackhawks who might see a performance dip next season feat. Nick Foligno
The Chicago Blackhawks continue their rebuild after finishing with the second-worst record in the NHL last season. However, the Blackhawks were active in free agency and added some players to try and be more competitive.
Entering the 2024-25 NHL season, despite having more depth, Chicago likely will miss the playoffs again. There could also be some players who will take a step back in the campaign.
3 Blackhawks players who could see a decline in performance in 2024
#1, Nick Foligno
Nick Foligno was signed by the Chicago Blackhawks last season to add some veteran presence to the locker room and help mentor Connor Bedard.
Foligno did well and he was rewarded with a two-year $9 million deal. Last season, he skated in 74 games recording 17 goals and 20 assists for 37 points. However, Foligno likely won't be playing on a line with Connor Bedard and could instead be on the third or fourth line next season.
That said, it should result in fewer points and less ice time which makes Foligno a prime candidate for a worse season.
#2, Ryan Donato
Ryan Donato skated in 78 games for Chicago last season and recorded 12 goals and 18 assists for 30 points. It was a solid year for the centerman whose career-high in points is 31.
After Chicago added more talent, Donato now finds himself further down the lineup and is projected to be the Blackhawks' fourth-line center. With Donato on the fourth line, he will see much less ice time which will make it harder for him to get points.
Donato will likely finish around the low to mid-20s in points next season.
#3, Petr Mrazek
Petr Mrazek was Chicago's starting goalie last season and went 18-31-4 with a 3.05 GAA and a .908 SV%. It was a solid season for Mrazek who has bounced around the league and has dealt with injuries.
However, Chicago signed Laurent Brossoit who will miss the start of the season due to an injury. But once he is healthy, Brossoit will likely get more starts than Mrazek which is why he could see a dip in production.