Blackhawks' Youth Movement: Vlasic Steps Up

0:00Here's more NHL news for March 12th. The Chicago Black Hawks made a big move at the trade deadline, sending Captain Nick Fellinho to the Minnesota Wild for future considerations. At 38 years old with 19 NHL seasons, Fellinho gets a shot to play alongside his brother Marcus and Chase's first Stanley Cup in what? Could be his final years. They also dealt alternate Captain Connor Murphy to the Emmington Oilers, stripping away key veterans. Now the Black Hawks boasts the league's youngest roster with an average player age of 25.5. That puts 24-year-old defenseman Alex Vlasik as the longest 10-year hawk with 241 games under his belt. Vlasik, a well-met native drafted in the second round back in 2019, has grown into a reliable defender. His 6-foot 6-frame, smart putt breakouts, and penalty kill work make him a standout on the blue line. He signed a 6-year extension last year at 4.6 million per season on average.

1:00With the Vets gone, Vlasik faces new pressure as a leader for the defense group. He plans to lead quietly, picking moments to speak up rather than forcing it, drawing lessons from Murphy's steady style. It's a big shift for such a young guy. This signals a new chapter for Chicago, with Connor Bedard likely named the next Captain next season and Vlasik possibly earning an alternate letter. The kids now carry the load through the final 18 games, building on what they've learned. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor. You know what is better than earbuds and bed? No earbuds at all. S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.