The Blackhawks Are Setting Up TJ Brodie For Future Success

Sometimes players respond to utilization differently, and in Brodie's case, he is set to be a 3rd pairing defenseman, as projected by DailyFaceOff. The defenseman was signed to a two-year deal with the Blackhawks during the off-season.

He will be the #5 defenseman on a rebuilding team, again obviously a different role here in Chicago.

In Toronto Brodie played over 20 minutes regular in the last 10 of 11 seasons in the NHL and he won't have to spend so much time on the penalty, as the Blackhawks have other options.

In 2023-2024 he logged 214 minutes on the PK and has played more than 150 minutes in his last eight seasons on the PK too. The burden of responsibility has been lifted from his shoulders. This could be a good thing for Brodie, who could step up his game with less pressure.

Brodie's been set up for success in Chicago, as he was likely overmatched in Toronto, especially on the top line. But on the third pairing with Alec Martinez, he could be used more as a shut-down defenseman and utilized against the bottom six of other teams.

One thing the Blackhawks can also count on from Brodie is blocked shots, as during his 14-year NHL career he has blocked a whopping 1,375 shots.

He likely won't see 200 minutes on the PK this season, nor will he be utilized in the top-pairing, giving Brodie a chance at a healthy season, being hit less.

This partnership for the next two years could prove to be a great investment, as Brodie holds a spot for the next up and coming Blackhawks prospect.

Source: Yahoo
Blackhawks Have Former Maple Leafs Defenseman T.J. Brodie Set Up for Success