NBC Sports: Blackhawks coach Jeremy Colliton's job security is in danger

How much longer will Jeremy Colliton last as Blackhawks head coach?

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 2 years ago
NBC Sports: Blackhawks coach Jeremy Colliton's job security is in danger
Sports Illustrated

he saidThe Chicago Blackhawks continue their period of transition under GM Stan Bowman, but have his offseason moves been enough to get the team back to the winning ways that saw better than 22,000 fans pack United Center during the glory years of the 2010's? 

Gone are the likes of defensive mainstay Duncan Keith and (on paper, though his playing career is over) Brent Seabrook, who were both dealt over the summer. Arriving into the Windy City are the likes of Seth Jones, Jake McCabe, Tyler Johnson, Marc-Andre Fleury, Caleb Jones, and Jujhar Khaira. 

Meanwhile, bench boss Jeremy Colliton enters his fourth year in the position after taking over for 3-time Stanley Cup winner Joel Quenneville. But with only one playoff appearance to his credit as head coach of the Blackhawks, how much longer can he last in the Windy City before he blows away? 

According to NBC Sports, Colliton's job safety is listed in the paltry "danger zone" category. Take a look at the reasoning below: 

32. Jeremy Colliton, Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks’ only playoff appearance the past four years (including three with Colliton) was the bubble season where they had the NHL’s 23rd-best record. They spent a ton of money this offseason, increased expectations, and still have a thin roster that looks nothing like a contender. Classic case of a team that might “disappoint” and make an early change."

For Colliton himself, he knows that he and his squad must be better in the upcoming season.

‘‘We expect to be better,’’ he said. ‘‘We made some progress last year, but ultimately I don’t think you can be in this league if you don’t want to be the best and get in the playoffs and win playoff series. We’re looking to take another step. And with the guys we’ve added, we think they can help us do that.’’

And with the offseason additions that Bowman swung, Colliton is looking forward to bigger and better things. 

‘I’m very happy with what we’ve been able to do,’’ Colliton said. ‘‘Obviously, I have input. That’s one thing that Stan does: He wants to hear what you think and wants us to look at players and have an opinion. And then, ultimately, he makes the calls. If you looked before the offseason at some areas we wanted to improve, he has hit all of them.’’

Source: NBC Sports