Another year for hockey is here—it’s time for a breakout season where players make their mark and influence games unexpectedly. While the spotlight often shines on star players, it’s the hidden gems that shift a team’s balance. The Chicago Blackhawks’ roster holds several of these talents, and this could be their time to shine.
You’ve likely cheered for these players in standout moments like goals or assists. But beyond these highlights, who are these players? Their stats might not tell the full story, and injuries may have limited their impact in previous seasons. However, these players are here to solidify their place in the Blackhawks’ lineup and make a lasting impression.
Blackhawks’ Underrated Players Set for a Breakout Season
Andreas Athanasiou
Drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2012, Andreas Athanasiou made his NHL debut in 2015. While still working to reach his potential, he played for the Grand Rapids Griffins and scored 16 points in 26 AHL games. After returning to the Red Wings, he completed his first full NHL season in 2016-17, finishing second in goal scoring despite playing fewer games than the team’s top scorer. After seasons with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings, he signed a one-year deal with the Blackhawks in 2022.
Re-signed for two years and feeling healthier, Athanasiou has a promising outlook for the upcoming season. Injuries limited him to 28 games in 2023-24, with 2 goals and 7 assists. However, in a healthier 2022-23, he posted 40 points in 81 games, demonstrating his potential. As one of the underrated NHL players on the Blackhawks’ roster, Athanasiou could have a breakout season. He has chemistry with his linemates and the speed to make an impact. Projected on the third line with Nick Foligno and Ilya Mikheyev, his versatility might lead to a different line that needs an offensive spark. Additionally, he could reach his 500th career game this season.
Ryan Donato
Starting his NHL career with the Boston Bruins, Donato has mainly had a breakout season with every team he’s played for, including the Minnesota Wild, San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken, and now the Blackhawks. Though he tends to fly under the radar, his specialties on the ice make him stand out in key moments. Projected to start on the fourth line this season, he’s known for disrupting opponents by causing turnovers or delivering hits that lead to puck possession changes.
Although not always in the spotlight, his consistency as a player is undeniable. He’s proven his ability to open and close scoring opportunities for his team and aims for milestones with the Blackhawks. Despite starting on the bottom line, he’s been an important linemate for Connor Bedard, showcasing his value even in a more limited role as he strives for a breakout year.
Connor Murphy
Returning in April after an injury, Connor Murphy has always brought energy and connection to the league and USA Hockey. This season, he’s projected to work alongside Kevin Korchinski, a promising young defenceman. Murphy’s injury made it challenging for the then-19-year-old Korchinski to break into the top four. Now, paired together, they could form a solid partnership.
For Korchinski, having a veteran like Murphy could boost his development and increase point production. Hopefully, with this pairing and a strong training camp Murphy will regain consistency and achieve a breakout season, ultimately reaching his full potential with Korchinski at his side.
Jason Dickinson
After spending most of his NHL career with the Dallas Stars and a season with the Vancouver Canucks, Dickinson has flown under the radar since joining the Blackhawks. His time in Dallas solidified him as an NHL regular, and his role with the Blackhawks has grown. According to a projected roster shared by the NHL on Instagram, Dickinson is expected to play on the second line alongside Taylor Hall and Teuvo Teräväinen. This opportunity could be pivotal for Dickinson, offering a chance for a breakout season and a more prominent role.
Bleacher Nation describes Dickinson as a “driving force for the Blackhawks defensively,” noting his leadership in face-offs. Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson praised his offensive contributions and leadership, especially with younger players. His performance sets the stage for a breakout season, showing his impact on both ends of the ice.
“He’s showing his offensive game this year, which has been a huge lift to our team. His leadership has been instrumental, and the impact has been evident around the room, particularly with our younger guys.”
With these four veterans rising, it’s exciting to see how they’ll mesh with new roster additions from free agency. Each of these underrated NHL players has the opportunity for a breakout season, making a bigger impact on the ice and passing valuable experience to the younger teammates. Their leadership and influence could shape this year’s season.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
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