The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Cam Morrison to an entry-level contract. The deal is for two years and will take the former college skater through 2021-22. Chicago is still in the NHL postseason bubble for now but they are preparing for what could be a busy offseason of talent acquisition. The team announced the move early Tuesday morning.
Cam you believe?!@NDHockey forward Cam Morrison has inked a two-year contract that runs through the 2021-22 season ($925,000 AAV)! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/PUV8ffx8v0
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 18, 2020
Blackhawks Sign Cam Morrison
Morrison had a good senior season for the University of Notre Dame. He scored 13 goals and 27 points in 37 games before the season ended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both figures represent career-bests. Some of that is due to age, but Morrison just might be getting better as well. Morrison ended his collegiate career with 44 goals and 95 points in 149 games.
The Colorado Avalanche originally selected Morrison in the fourth round of the 2016 NHL Draft. Colorado held Morrison’s signing rights until the most recent weekend. They failed to sign their former pick which is why Chicago could offer a deal at all. Morrison isn’t a superior offensive threat but he is a 6’2″ 203-pound forward with some scoring ability. He’ll fit on Chicago’s bottom-six if he ever makes the NHL.
What This Means for the Future
It is hard to envision Morrison cracking the Blackhawks’ future roster but there is always a chance. Chicago’s farm system is improving but it could still use another few prospects. Fans will have to wait and see what Morrison does in the AHL or ECHL next season before making a definite statement on his future.
Chicago still has several NHL players who need new contracts this offseason. That includes both goaltenders, Corey Crawford and Malcolm Subban. Decisions are also needed on outstanding rookie Dominik Kubalik. Chicago could be one of the busier teams this offseason. Morrison’s signing might be the first sign that they are also combing expired draft rights for unappreciated talent.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
