From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 30s
Bowen Byram's confidence helps Blackhawks
Blackhawks' new defenseman Bowen Byram shows swagger to handle pressure.
In brief
Blackhawks' new defenseman Bowen Byram shows swagger to handle pressure. Bowen Byram's innate confidence allows him to play his style and handle pressure with the Blackhawks. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Preseason debut
Blackhawks defenseman Bowen Byram impressed in his preseason debut Monday.
Contract pressure
Byram faces six-year $75 million contract pressure to justify team assets.
Seth Jones comparison
Former No. 1 defenseman Seth Jones faced similar pressure but never fully recovered.
Innate confidence
Byram possesses unshakable self-belief to be a stellar No. 1 defenseman.
Alex Vlasic quote
Alex Vlasic says Byram has quiet confidence to move past mistakes and make plays.
“There’s a swagger about him that he carries with himself”
Preseason stats
Byram recorded three goals and five shots in over 23 minutes of ice time.
Offensive play
Byram showed accurate shooting, vision and puck protection in his goals.
Defensive agility
Byram uses quickness to get back into position after small mistakes.
First goal
Byram scored first goal with accurate shooting from right circle.
Second goal
Byram scored second goal with vision and passing that led to lucky bounce.
Third goal
Byram scored third goal with puck protection while moving at speed.
Early mistake
Byram turned puck over in first 15 seconds after losing man and allowing goal.
Mental resilience
Byram bounced back from early mistake with focus on quick play and defense.
Team impact
Byram's confidence could rub off on young teammates like Sam Rinzel.
The takeaway
Bowen Byram's innate confidence allows him to play his style and handle pressure with the Blackhawks.
