Free Agent Profile: Frank Vatrano
There is no denying that the Blackhawks have a long road ahead in their quest to return to the top of the mountain. The rebuild is going to be painful and full of uncertainty. Kyle Davidson has multiple different paths in front of him, such as trading DeBrincat and possibly even Toews and Kane, or making smart free agent signings to begin building for the future. With the position the Blackhawks are in, there is no chance of big-name signings, but there is a high possibility of mid-tier players being brought in to begin building for the future. One of those potential signings I would like to see is Frank Vatrano.
Vatrano has been in the league for 7 seasons, debuting in the 2015-16 season for the Boston Bruins. Vatrano has tallied 170 points in 401 games played, 101 points coming from goals scored. While his point production might not jump out at you, he has proven that he has the ability to make an impact. Vatrano had a breakthrough in this postseason for the Rangers, scoring 13 points in 20 games. I think Vatrano may be a perfect fit for the Blackhawks, and here is why.
For starters, Vatrano is only 28 years old with a lot of hockey left in the tank. He is strong on the puck, has great shooting accuracy, plays a team game, and has great stickhandling ability. Vatrano is the type of player that teams entering a period of uncertainty salivate over. A player who is a proven goal scorer who could be a piece of the future. Vatrano is still young enough to be a piece of the next competitive Hawks team. Vatrano also wouldn't break the bank in terms of potential cap hit. He is currently making $2.5 million a season and will more than likely be in the same ballpark on his next contract. Vatrano also plays the game the right way. He backchecks, plays physical when needed, and isn't afraid to stick up for his teammates. Having rookies learn and play with a guy like Vatrano would be great for their development.
A Vatrano signing would also allow the Blackhawks thin prospect pool more time to develop. As a winger, Vatrano could slide up and down the lineup as needed. With the future uncertain on DeBrincat, Strome, Kubalik, and Kane, Vatrano could bring a calming presence to a lineup that will most likely look a lot younger next season. I think Vatrano would be a great addition to the Blackhawks and help the rebuild along. What do you think? Should the Blackhawks try to sign Vatrano?
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Blackhawks should try to sign Frank Vatrano? | ||
| Yes, he would be a great piece for the future | 55 | 58.5 % |
| No, he wouldn't make an impact | 39 | 41.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
