Stalberg meeting challenges at competitive camp
Viktor Stalberg came to training camp with the Blackhawks well aware of the serious competition at forward, knowing he couldn't be guaranteed a regular spot in the lineup.
All Stalberg has done is meet that competition head on and been one of the most impressive Hawks through the first week of the preseason.
Stalberg has been fast and physical and noticeable with his chances around the net, two of which he turned into goals in Friday's 3-2 win over Washington at the United Center.
“I think he's had a real good camp this year,” coach Joel Quenneville said. “We always notice his speed and his energy, but this year there's a little more patience and more confidence in the scoring area, knowing that his speed can be effective and beat people with it wide.
“His overall game has improved and let's hope he's looking for more responsibility. It is competitive where he's at looking at our lineup and his chances to play with different guys. I don't want to say he's been a surprise because we know him, but I think he's had a real positive start to the season.”
Stalberg's speed and versatility might give him a leg up on some of the others trying to take a roster spot away from him such as rookies Ben Smith and Marcus Kruger, both of whom have yet to impress in the preseason.
Stalberg has the speed and skill to play with the Hawks' elite players and he is gritty enough to be on the fourth line should Quenneville ultimately elect go with a fourth line of perhaps Jamal Mayers, Daniel Carcillo and Stalberg.
“I think I'm a little more prepared this year,” Stalberg said. “I have a little more calm in my game. I'm getting more quality chances out there and if you keep getting those you're going to score offensively.”
Stalberg's big night Friday might have been overshadowed to a certain extent by what rookie left wing Brandon Saad did.
Saad set up Stalberg's first goal then scored the game winner himself with less than four minutes to play.
But as impressive as Saad has been, it's still more than likely the 18-year-old second-round draft pick is going to be sent back to juniors at some point in the next week.
“He's been playing great,” Stalberg said. “If he keeps playing smart and winning puck battles he's going to be a good player in this league. If it's this year or not, we'll have to wait and see, but he has a great future in front of him.”
Stalberg sees his time as now as he begins his second full season in the NHL with the Hawks. He scored 12 goals last season despite averaging only 10 minutes of ice time.
“I just keep trying to take pucks to the net, use my speed and keep things simple,” Stalberg said. “I think I've learned something about trying to get around defensemen. It seems to be working so far, but obviously we're not playing against full NHL teams right now, but it's nice to get a couple goals and feel good about yourself.”