Kyle Davidson was not sitting back this offseason and went a completely different route. The Chicago Blackhawks left spots to young players without really having to earn them last preseason. This time around, veterans were traded for and signed to fill the roster, forcing the younger players to really compete for a spot in the NHL.
Landon Slaggert had an impressive final season in the NCAA for the University of Notre Dame before signing an entry-level deal and joining the Blackhawks for the final portion of the season. He got into 16 games and fit in. He scored one goal and recorded four points, but also had a 53.3 goals for percentage.
Slaggert didn’t look out of place in the NHL and the team got a good look at the 22-year-old while there was space for him to play.
He isn’t a shoe-in to make the Blackhawks out of training camp this season, but when asked about the veteran additions to the team, Chicago’s prospect said, “I think it’s great that they’re adding some veteran leadership and some good guys in those positions. Doesn’t change my mentality though. I’m going in with a great attitude, great effort, just showing what I can do, that’s all I can do, and see what happens from there.”
Attending the Tom Kurvers prospect showcase allowed for Slaggert to get his legs under him, lung goings, and work on his game. He used it as a stepping stone into training camp that has now opened. Slaggert wanted to show the management staff how far he’s come in the offseason considering he already proved that he can hang in the NHL and be a contributing piece.
Playing some games with the Blackhawks last season allowed Slaggert to come into this season and feel more comfortable. “I think it definitely takes some of that stress, that pressure off.” He explains that he’s leaning on some of the older guys as it is his first training camp. He knows a number of the veterans from last season and Nick Foligno has already been a help to him to lean on.
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Slaggert notes the tips and tricks going into camp. “Not to be timid going into camp. Just play your game and show them what you can do.”
He talked to the player development staff of the Blackhawks a lot and Slaggert said “low play was definitely a big emphasis this offseason.” He got more specific in mentioning where he can create reps where he’s leaning on guys and creating pressure down low. “I’ve noticed some improvements out there (where he trained in the offseason) and I hope it translates out here (Blackhawks training camp).”
I expect Slaggert to get playing time in the NHL this season, but also the AHL. He has to take a spot from a veteran out of the gates to make the 23-man roster of the Blackhawks out of training camp. With what he showed late last season, he’s not far off from being a full-time NHLer. Maybe he’ll surprise and force the hand of Blackhawks’ management.
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