How much more time will the Blackhawks spend on Kevin Lankinen?

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Claire
June 2, 2022 (2:06)

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Kevin Lankinen looked promising for the future of the Blackhawks' goaltending after earning 17 wins in his rookie season. After signing Marc-Andre Fleury, fans were hoping for a dominant tandem in between the pipes but it was never seen. After a fall from grace, is it possible for Lankinen to get it together or will the Hawks avoid re-signing him?

The team is going to need someone who can hold their own in the net during the rebuild, but that might be hard to find. Lankinen has two years of NHL experience under his belt, and that could serve him well next season now that he's known both highs (for a rookie) and lows in the net.

A new contract would be inexpensive given that his last one was 2 years for $1,600,00 with an $800,000 cap hit. This gives wiggle room to shop for another goalie while still having at least one to count on. Unless Collin Delia gets re-signed and plays a full NHL season or Arvid Soderblom gets more of a chance, Lankinen will most likely be the main guy in net.

If Lankinen gets re-signed, then more likely than not he'll be the main starter next season. If Kyle Davidson signs a free agent in the summer, then his starting position might come into question.

Although his stats may have a lot of fans doubtful, I think Lankinen still has it in him to break out of his shell and succeed. If given the proper time to develop, he'll be able to grow more confident in himself and his play style. If Davidson signs him through the rebuild, he might come out of it with a fierce player in the crease.