Analyzing Caleb Jones And His Future With Chicago

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Jared
June 6, 2022 (3:33 PM)

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Caleb Jones was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in the package that sent Duncan Keith out of Chicago. While his first season in Chicago was filled with some highs, lows, and injuries, he was able to show the Blackhawks that he can hang. Today, on his 25th birthday, let's discuss whether or not Caleb Jones will be a Blackhawk moving forward or if it is too early to celebrate.

First of all, Caleb Jones set new career highs in goals (5), assists (10), points (15), and games played (51). Jones also shattered his old career high in hits (33) with 77 this past season. Jones is praised for his ability to play in a magnitude of different situations, such as the powerplay, penalty kill, offensive zone, and defensive zone. He brings a physical presence to the ice and is not afraid to get in a board battle in the corner or take a hit to get the puck out of the zone. Jones also has a very good shot and is one of the most mobile defenseman on the roster. After setting career highs in almost every category this season, will he be a Blackhawk moving forward?

I think that Caleb Jones should be given another chance this season to prove himself. Jones is only 25 years old and has shown flashes of his high potential throughout his time in Chicago. As an RFA, Caleb's next contract should be relatively cap friendly, especially since his AAV over his last contract was only $850,000.

The Blackhawks do have more than a handful of young defensive prospects that could make their way to the NHL level soon. However, it is too soon to tell how their development will be handled. Ian Mitchell, Alec Regula, Alex Vlasic, and others may spend majority of their time in Rockford to further their development, but they could also impress in training camp and earn a shot out of the gate. With Seth Jones, Connor Murphy, Jake McCabe, and Riley Stillman on the roster, there are two more roster spots for Caleb and the rookies listed to compete for, barring any trades or buyouts from Kyle Davidson.

I think Caleb Jones would be a low risk signing for the Blackhawks. His next contract as an RFA will not be substantial by any means and will allow the Blackhawks to ease their top defensive prospects to the NHL slowly whenever they're ready. Caleb Jones's numbers may not jump out of the box score, but he has been a constant on the blueline for the Hawks. What do you think? Should the Blackhawks bring back Caleb Jones?