The Chicago Blackhawks have not had an ideal beginning to the season, sporting a record of 5-8-1 after 14 games. While they are only three points away from third place in the Central Division, the team has struggled to achieve consistency. However, assistant captain Seth Jones is showing solid performance this season.
Seth Jones is Making a Comeback for the Chicago Blackhawks
Last season was almost the worst of Seth Jones’ career, as he played 67 games for the Blackhawks and recorded 31 points (8 goals, 23 assists), finishing with a minus 15 rating. He spent significant time injured, and upon his return, he was unable to regain his game rhythm. The Blackhawks brought Jones in from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2021, aiming for him to provide veteran leadership during the team’s rebuild. He then signed an 8-year contract extension, keeping him with the team through the 2030-31 season.
Jones had a strong inaugural season with the Blackhawks, notching 51 points (5 goals, 46 assists) in 78 games. However, his performance dipped sharply in the 2022-23 season, where he managed just 37 points in 72 games and faced a minus 38 rating. Although last season marked some improvement in his plus/minus statistics, the team still sought greater offensive contributions from him.
This season, Jones appears to be reviving his game, accumulating nine points (two goals, seven assists) in 14 games with a minus one rating. If he continues at this pace, he could finish with 52 points, just shy of his career-best of 54. Notably, he is averaging nearly 26 minutes of ice time per game so far.
Seth Jones was a crucial player for the Blackhawks to have a rebound season, and indications suggest that he is doing just that. Playing for a rebuilding team presents its challenges, with expectations for regular-season success being low, and playoff aspirations virtually nonexistent this year. Nevertheless, Jones committed to the Blackhawks for eight more seasons, realizing a rebuild was on the horizon. His dedication to the organization is significant, and as an Assistant Captain, he has consistently embraced that leadership role.
With Connor Bedard in only his second season, along with other rookies like Frank Nazar and Artyom Levshunov still developing, the Blackhawks are likely to face more challenges over the next few years.
The team hopes that newcomers like Tyler Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen, who are beginning to find their offensive rhythm, can lessen these struggles. Still, Seth Jones is expected to be a steady presence for the foreseeable future. He is set to be the cornerstone of the Blackhawks’ defense, taking on substantial minutes in various situations. Additionally, he will provide guidance for young defensemen like Kevin Korchinski and Levshunov. His continued commitment and performance make him a role model for younger players, fostering a positive mindset throughout the locker room.
The Blackhawks possess plenty of skill, blending fast, exciting young talent with the steadiness of veteran players. Although they will require more time for their rookies to adjust and develop, having leaders like Seth Jones alongside Connor Bedard may accelerate their progress.
