Blackhawks Fire Assistant Coach Mike Kitchen

CHICAGO, IL -- GM Stan Bowman is keeping to his word about making changes, I guess.

This may seem like a surprise to a lot of fans, but honestly, I can't say I'm overly surprised. Kitchen was mostly responsible for the power play and penalty-killing units. It's not an exaggeration to suggest that both units were more than disappointing this season--especially when it really mattered and they needed to be strong.

But, Kitchen was a good assistant coach. He saw the last two Stanley Cups with the Blackhawks, starting after the 2009-2010 season with the Hawks. Up until this year, the penalty killing and power play has been stellar--but, obviously something changed.

Still, I'm not sure anyone expected Bowman to make changes this quickly, or in this fashion. I think this likely sets the stage for what to expect this summer, which could be shocking to some fans this summer.

I'm not even entirely sure who is safe on the roster or coaching staff (except Coach Q, who Bowman said is going nowhere).

This is just the tip of the iceberg, friends. Hang on.

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