The Chicago Blackhawks have only played four games, but Seth Jones is currently on track for a remarkable 102-point season. While that isn’t likely to continue, Jones has begun the season in a way that suggests he could match his output from his inaugural year with the team. At the moment, he appears to be playing exceptionally well.
Last season, Jones primarily paired with Alex Vlasic, which helped the young defenseman develop into an essential part of the team’s future. This season, he has been paired with Alec Martinez, allowing Jones to focus more on offensive play while Vlasic matures into a well-rounded defenseman alongside TJ Brodie. Consequently, Jones has put up notable numbers and frequently joined offensive plays.
In the game on Tuesday, Jones played a crucial role in the team’s attempt to equalize. Just 10 seconds after the Calgary Flames scored in the first period, Jones assisted on the Hawks’ only goal, skillfully maneuvering the puck towards the net past an opposing defender. Nick Foligno’s redirection brought the Hawks onto the scoreboard, with Jones being the driving force behind the play.
After notching his fourth assist of the season, Jones has accrued five points in four games. He is currently tied with Connor Bedard for assists and shares the team lead in points with both Bedard and Teuvo Teravainen.
Despite Jones’ impressive performance and the swift response to Calgary’s opening goal, the Hawks ultimately lost in Calgary, as the Flames secured their fourth consecutive win to start the season, highlighted by two goals from Matt Coronato and one from Andrei Kuzmenko, a player who would have fit well on the Blackhawks roster.
