Well, if nothing else, you can't say that this season didn't go according to plan for the Chicago Blackhawks. 

This team was singularly focused on its position at the NHL Draft Lottery, and every move they've made from last year's trade deadline to now has aligned with that vision.

They were calculated and ruthless in manoeuvring their roster, even parting with relatively young contributors lest a breakout or bounce-back season affect their position in the standings.

Alex DeBrincat? Gone for a high first-round pick. Kirby Dach? Thanks for your service, and we'll take another first-rounder for the trouble. Dylan Strome? No, not even a qualifying offer, best of luck out there.

If that wasn't enough, the Blackhawks turned their crease into the island of misfit toys, banking on a battery of Petr M