Chicago Blackhawks have high hopes for Alex Vlasic and his potential in the NHL. Vlasic is one of the few promising defensemen to have played for the Blackhawks in recent seasons. Artyom Levshunov showed his skillsand Sam Rinzel impressed from the start. However, Vlasic is arguably already the team's most important defender.
Vlasic has become a quality defenseman in the NHL. Each season he took on more and more responsibility. And he showed the ability to contribute on penalties. Even though he is only 24 years old, he is a leader in the dressing room. That was evident Sunday when he wore the “A” on his jersey as an alternate captain against the Anaheim Ducks.
This is a great honor, especially for a player of his age. Added to this is his connection to the Blackhawks franchise. He grew up in the Chicago suburbs and watched the team grow up. All of this made the decision even more surreal. However, he remained quite modest when we talk about it.
“Honestly, it's a little weird. The first thing I noticed was when I would go to games and see guys like Keith, Seabrook, Sharp, Kaner, all these guys with A's, it's kind of crazy to think that kids would come to games and look at me the same way,” the Blackhawks defenseman said, via reporter Charlie Roumeliotis.
“I don't feel like I'm that good of a leader compared to these guys, but it was definitely a pinch-me moment. I'm really grateful for it. It's a really cool opportunity.”
Vlasic didn't score a single point against the Ducks on Sunday night. However, he played a big role in their victory. In the match against Anaheim, he played just over 24 minutes on the ice. He blocked four shots and hit two shots in the 2-1 overtime victory.
The Blackhawks have shown some promise early in the season. Vlasic is the main reason Chicago has had several big wins. He seems to be becoming a complete player this season and an important player in the locker room.
