Cole Smith Comes to Chicago With High Expectations

Filling His Role

As previously mentioned, Smith comes from the Golden Knights. Playing under Torterella, Andrew Brunett, and John Hynes throughout his career, Smith is utilized in their systems. All three focus on highly physical play being a catalyst for their success. Another coach whose game plan includes forechecking? Jeff Blashil.

Smith is aware he isn’t the flashiest player on the ice, but says he knows where he finds his value.

“Finding a niche or part of your game that makes you stick is very important. I’ve been able to find that.”

Like all great sparkplugs, Smith is a fan favorite. Many will remember Cole for his dagger against the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Colorado Avalanche in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final. In Chicago’s bottom six, Smith will look to replicate the success of players like Sam Lafferty, Jason Dickinson, and Ilya Mikheyev. 

Settling Down

Throughout his presser, Cole constantly mentioned how appreciative and great the Chicago Blackhawks front office was. Going as far as to say, “…(they) made me feel almost special in a way.” Connor Bedard apparently was one of the first players to reach out to Smith, and Cole reciprocated the favor in the media.  “…looking forward to meeting him (Bedard), seeing what makes him tick.”

As well as on-ice structure and support, the term of his contract was an important decision when deciding on a landing spot. The three-year deal marks the longest contract given to Smith in his professional career. And he’s more than happy about it. Via Kalen Lumpkins of the Tribune 

“To have three years to move (into a) house there, put our roots back down (and) be comfortable without thinking about moving again is huge. It’s going to be great for me, my fiancée and the little one to have a spot for us.”   It’s clear that Cole Smith is excited to be a Chicago Blackhawk, but more importantly is ready to win.