The Chicago Blackhawks have seen many talented players come through the team in recent years, with several experiencing deep playoff runs against Chicago, though not all found championship success. One notable player who just missed the chance to win a title with the Blackhawks is Alex DeBrincat. Drafted 39th overall in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft, DeBrincat earned his spot despite his smaller stature thanks to his outstanding play with the Erie Otters in the OHL. He shared the ice with Conor McDavid but still emerged as a star as his generation of centers advanced to the NHL.
DeBrincat made his NHL debut in the 2017-18 season, unfortunately arriving after Chicago’s championship window had closed. During his time with the Blackhawks, he played alongside stars like Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Duncan Keith, and Brent Seabrook, and made notable contributions in the playoffs. Between 2017 and 2022, “The Cat” amassed 160 goals and 147 assists, totaling 307 points over 368 games, proving to be one of the best players from his draft class despite being a second-round pick.
While in Chicago, DeBrincat developed a strong friendship and on-ice chemistry with Patrick Kane. Though Kane’s dynamic play wasn’t quite the same as his peak years with Artemi Panarin, their partnership was still impactful. Off the ice, the two shared a close bond, showcasing their camaraderie during games.
Despite a standout 2021-22 season where DeBrincat scored 41 goals and 37 assists for 78 points, the Blackhawks decided to trade him. They acquired the seventh overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft from the Ottawa Senators, which they used to draft Kevin Korchinski. However, losing DeBrincat was a tough blow for the team.
A year later, DeBrincat was traded from Ottawa to his hometown Detroit Red Wings, reuniting with Kane once again. His 39-goal, 70-point season with the Red Wings was his best since leaving Chicago. Although DeBrincat’s time with the Blackhawks was marked by struggles, he was a key figure during a challenging era. Now, paired alongside rising star Connor Bedard, he looks poised for success, though one wonders if having DeBrincat in Chicago might have prevented the team from being weak enough to secure Bedard in the draft. Both DeBrincat and the Blackhawks can cherish the positive memories they made together.
Fan Take: Alex DeBrincat’s journey highlights how talent and perseverance can define a player’s legacy even amid team struggles. For hockey fans, his story is a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the sport—how players evolve, move, and reconnect, shaping the future of their teams and the league.
