It’s amazing to see how the youth movement has injected life into not only the team but the fans as well. The narrative around the team has dramatically changed (for those actually watching) since the Winter Classic to now and it’s all because of the youth that has been added and that has been playing well. If we’re going to lose then why not let the kids take their lumps now

What a terrific take both on Sam Rinzel as well as the fountain of youth. I was at the game yesterday and United Center was buzzing. I am really excited what the future holds for this team, and I think the worst is behind them. We will likely look back at the Seth Jones trade as the turning point for the direction of this rebuild.

In the off-season, I would love for them to not only draft either Misa or Hagens, but also try to make a play for Martone by trading away their own 2026 1st round pick. Not only would that add to the fountain of youth, but also make a statement to the coaching candidates and free agents that the era of losing is over.

As usual, great article Jay!