According to reports, free agent center/winger Tommy Wingels has agreed to sign with the Chicago Blackhawks. Full financial details are not yet available, we will update when we have them. Wingels is entering his eighth season in the NHL as a depth forward. Wingels was drafted in the sixth round by the San Jose Sharks in 2008 after his freshman season at the University of Miami (Ohio). He spent over six seasons in San Jose before being traded to the Ottawa Senators during the 2016-2017 season.
Tommy Wingels to sign with Chicago #Blackhawks. Finished in Ottawa last season #NHLFreeAgency
— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) July 1, 2017
Report: Tommy Wingels to Sign With Chicago Blackhawks
The 29-year-old Wingels had a disappointing 2016 season as he finished with just 12 points and a slew of healthy scratches during the playoffs. This was Wingels’ lowest point total since his rookie season in the NHL. Wingels is not known for scoring and is more of a versatile bottom nine forward, however he has had two, 15 goal seasons. His versatility on the wings makes him a good bottom line option who plays a smart game. He will be asked to bring hard play and experience; not a ton of points. Although he possesses a good shot from the slot, his proficiency on the forecheck is what defines his game. Wingels is an interesting sign as he has the potential to be a solid producer on a bottom line. Wingels’ flaws lie in his sometimes too physical play where he will get himself injured and his inconsistency.
Before receiving his newest contract, Wingels signed a two-year, almost $2 million entry level deal. Following another two year deal worth $1.55 million, he signed a three year $7.5 million deal with the Sharks in the summer of 2014. Wingels will look to forget his most recent season and return to his 2013 ways. He produced over 15 goals then and reached almost 40 points for the first time in his career. His new team will look for him to become a reliable and consistent veteran presence.
