Stalberg on the spot to produce for Blackhawks
There were expectations at the start of training camp that Viktor Stalberg would earn a spot at left wing on one of the Blackhawks' top three lines.
While there's still a good chance Stalberg will be a top-nine forward when the season starts on Oct. 7 in Colorado, the 24-year-old Swede hasn't exactly had an eye-popping camp heading into tonight's fourth exhibition game at Pittsburgh.
"He's been all right," Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said Monday. "He's got an ingredient, he's definitely got high-end pace and speed to his game and a great shot. I think we need to watch him a little bit longer as he goes along."
Why so much attention on Stalberg?
He's the only player with NHL experience now in camp that the Hawks have to show for trading away Kris Versteeg, Dustin Byfuglien, Andrew Ladd, Ben Eager and Brent Sopel.
Stalberg came from Toronto in the Versteeg deal after scoring 9 goals in 40 games for the Maple Leafs last season following his promotion from the minors - and he knows there are a lot of eyes watching him closely.
"I guess there's a little pressure because they expect me to contribute here," Stalberg said. "It's a little different situation than last year.
"I'm just going to keep working away here and hopefully they like what they see."
The Hawks are going to need someone to help replace the 54 goals lost with Versteeg, Byfuglien and Ladd, which is where Stalberg comes in.
Stalberg doesn't have a point in two preseason games and is minus-1 with just 5 shots on goal. He'll likely get a chance to play in at least three of the last four exhibition games.
Quenneville cited production when asked what he specifically wanted to see from Stalberg this week.
"I think last year in camp with Toronto and during the course of the year he was producing," Quenneville said. "I think right now, whether he's not getting the puck enough or finishing opportunities, maybe that's what we're looking for."
Stalberg skated on a line with Fernando Pisani and Ryan Potulny at practice Monday, but was with Patrick Sharp and Patrick Kane for much of Saturday's game against Detroit at the United Center.
"The first couple preseason games I've tried to keep it simple," Stalberg said. "With Kane and Sharp my role is not to have the puck and I was trying to get it to them.
"I've only played in two preseason games so I haven't shown my best. We've still got four games left so hopefully I play a lot and show a little better."
Stalberg knows there are rookies such as Jeremy Morin and Igor Makarov pushing for roster spots, although the odds are both will start the season in Rockford.
"There are some young guys playing well and deserving of a look," Stalberg said. "Usually guys will drop off, but there are always surprises. I'm just worried about myself and how I play."
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