Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Blackhawks fire Mike Kitchen?
Kitchen was fired after the team's disappointing playoff performance, specifically because the penalty kill finished 24th in the NHL and the defensemen were badly outplayed in the first-round sweep by Nashville. The front office identified him as a scapegoat for the team's second straight first-round exit.
How long was Mike Kitchen with the Blackhawks?
Kitchen spent seven seasons as an assistant coach with the Blackhawks from 2010 to 2017. He joined the team after their 2010 Stanley Cup victory and was part of two additional championship teams in 2013 and 2015.
What was Mike Kitchen's role with the Blackhawks?
Kitchen served as Joel Quenneville's assistant coach and specifically oversaw Chicago's defensive group and penalty kill units.
How bad was the Blackhawks penalty kill in 2016-17?
The Blackhawks penalty kill was exposed early in the season and finished 24th in the NHL, which was a major factor in Kitchen's firing.
Will there be more Blackhawks coaching changes this offseason?
The team said changes were coming after the disappointing season, and Kitchen's firing was described as the first domino to fall. More changes could be coming during what's expected to be an interesting offseason.