TAKEAWAYS: Blackhawks End Preseason with Loss to Blues

Prior to tonight’s tilt against the St. Louis Blues, head coach Luke Richardson knew that the matchup would answer some questions with more roster cuts looming before the season opener on Tuesday.

With some roster spots still open among the bottom six forward positions, the contest allowed some opportunity for players to showcase a fighting effort to earn those last few spots. While the team brought in some heavy veteran presence with Nick Foligno and Corey Perry, Richardson emphasized how important it is to have players like Reese Johnson and MacKenzie Entwistle, due to their experience with the Blackhawks over the last few seasons.

Some players that caught the second-year head coach included Wyatt Kaiser and Isaak Phillips with their assertive style of play and knowledge of the team altogether.

“I think we have some experience that we brought in, but we have some of those guys that have been around a few years, I think it’s time they need to make a step,” Richardson said. “I think tonight will be another opportunity to show that they could take that step and be able to secure a spot in here.”