An article in today’s Tribune by David Haugh suggests that Dallas Stars free agent Mike Modano might end up with the Blackhawks, and may already have been one had the Stars not stepped in and offered him a contract in 2005 to stay in Dallas. Haugh relates that Modano could be an anchor on the third or fourth line.
↵There is something to be said about Modano, perhaps one of the best American-born players in the league, coming to the Hawks now that so many of the players have been traded due to salary cap constraints.
↵This past year, Modano played in 59 games and had 14 goals with 16 assists. Not bad for a 40 year old player. The one area for concern was his plus/minus record, which was a -6. But that’s not his fault.
↵Think about this. If Modano does come to the Hawks we would have the two best American players, possibly ever, on our side. That other player? Patrick Kane, who was born the year Modano was the Minnesota North Stars’ first overall pick — in 1988. Kane is said to have grown up “idolizing” Modano.
↵Modano is consistently good, even as he ages. The Hawks should take a good look at him. While the young Hawks now know what it’s like to win a Stanley Cup, they could all gain something from Modano’s longevity in the game.