Blackhawks ownership remains committed to namesake, logo
The Washington Redskins are no more. Soon, the Cleveland Indians will be extinct as well.
The two pro sports franchises join a growing list of teams that have dropped nicknames or changed logos/mascots that some find offensive.
While there are those who believe the Chicago Blackhawks should follow suit, ownership remains committed to its namesake and logo. The Wirtz family firmly believes it can educate fans and help them understand the Native American culture and learn more about its history.
Danny Wirtz, who was named CEO last week, spoke about the Hawks' decision when asked if there may come a day when the team may have to rethink its position.
"We continue to deepen our commitment to upholding our namesake and our brand," Wirtz said, who began by saying he respected the Indians' decision. "We continue to feel really positive about the types of work we can do - the way in which we can be better stewards of the namesake and the history.
"(We want) to use our platforms to be educators ... and (make) sure we provide that reverence and respect that we talk about.
"We (also) want it to come to life in everything we do across so many dimensions - from a marketing standpoint, from a learning and education standpoint and by all means from a community standpoint. ... We're going to continue down this path and continue to hold our brand up in the highest level of honor."
Different GM?
Stan Bowman, who was promoted to president of hockey operations Wednesday, retained his general manager duties but was asked Friday if he may one day hire someone else for that role. Bowman said it's something he may "look into in time" but for now he wants to see this new approach play itself out.
That new approach included hiring Jaime Faulkner as president of business operations and elevating Danny Wirtz to CEO.
"We're just sort of at a beginning stage of next phase and it's something that I'm thrilled about," Bowman said. "I really can't stress enough how much excitement that I have for where we're headed. ...
"I've had a chance to get to know (Wirtz) over the last 6-8 months. Such a bright, young voice and someone that I've learned a lot from already. ... With Jaime, I'm just getting to know her, but it's going to be a great combination of the three of us working together, exchanging ideas, challenging one another."
Next season:
The NHL is close finalizing the 2021 season. Teams are expected to play a 56-game schedule in reconfigured divisions. Training camps are expected to begin January 3, and season openers should come 10 days later.
This isn't the greatest scenario for the rebuilding Blackhawks, who would love to have a month to look at the new faces they hope to bring along. Plenty of storylines will present themselves, including:
• How will coach Jeremy Colliton use Brent Seabrook?
• Which young defensemen will emerge?
• What does Patrick Kane think of the team's direction?
But I'm actually most interested to see which goalie emerges as the No. 1 guy.
Based on last summer's training camp, my money is on Kevin Lankinen. If I'm right - and he truly is a capable No. 1 goaltender - it would be a huge win for Stan Bowman, who decided not to re-sign 35-year-old Corey Crawford.
And if not? Well, there will be plenty of capable free agents to woo next summer.
Strome brewing?
Stan Bowman did not give any updates on contract negotiations between the Hawks and forward Dylan Strome. The restricted free agent had 12 goals and 26 assists during an up-and-down campaign last season.
The Hawks have $5.2 million of cap space available for the upcoming season, but will have important decisions to make on Kirby Dach, Adam Boqvist, Dominik Kubalik (RFAs after 2021-22) and Connor Murphy (UFA after 2021-22). They are also spending under $2 million this season on goalies.
That's why the decision with Strome - who no doubt wants a decent payday - is so important. Bowman's been known to overpay in the past, but he might be digging his heels in here.