Taylor Hall's New CCM Experiment

Chicago Blackhawks forward Taylor Hall is entering the 2024-25 season with renewed determination to reclaim his status as one of the NHL's premier forwards. After a challenging first season in Chicago marred by injuries, Hall is eager to prove his value to the Blackhawks and their fans. Appearing in only 10 games last season, Hall was unable to make the offensive impact he’d envisioned, but with a clean slate this year, he’s focused on making a strong comeback that could see him return to his 60-point form. With Hall’s talent and work ethic, and a rising Blackhawks team surrounding him, the stage is set for a fresh chapter in the Windy City.

 

Staying healthy will be Hall’s top priority. While his speed, playmaking, and shooting ability remain dangerous, physical setbacks have hindered his ability to maintain consistent production in recent seasons. Yet, Hall’s track record as a former Hart Trophy winner and first overall pick speaks for itself, showcasing the elite level of play he’s capable of when at his best. In Chicago, the 32-year-old winger has an ideal setting to reestablish himself, contributing to a rebuilding team that has its eyes on progress. The Blackhawks are banking on Hall's offensive instincts and experience to drive their younger roster forward, and in return, Hall aims to solidify his role as an elite force on the ice.

 

This season, fans will also notice a change in Hall’s on-ice look as he debuts a new CCM gear setup. For equipment enthusiasts, it’s a notable shift; while Hall has experimented with CCM sticks over recent years, he has now expanded his CCM setup to include the Super Tacks X helmet and JetSpeed FT1 model gloves. This is somewhat of a throwback to his junior hockey days with the Windsor Spitfires, where he last had a setup that included this many CCM parts. For fans and equipment aficionados alike, seeing Hall in this new gear line sparks nostalgia and highlights his fresh start with the Blackhawks. His switch to CCM gloves, in particular, is intriguing and perhaps the most surprising because it has never been seen with him at this level. It’s a subtle but impactful adjustment, underscoring Hall’s commitment to exploring every possible advantage as he pushes for a comeback season.

 

Hall’s presence in Chicago comes at an ideal time. The Blackhawks are hungry to take a step forward as a team, with emerging talent supporting Hall’s push to rekindle his elite scoring form. He’s well-positioned to be a leader and mentor, especially with younger forwards around him who can benefit from his experience. For Hall, this season represents more than just another year on the ice; it’s a chance to make a statement, not just in numbers but in influence.

 

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hall’s health and his evolving role with the Blackhawks. If he can stay on the ice, avoid the injury bug, and maximize his offensive prowess, Hall has the potential to be a key component in Chicago’s resurgence. With his new CCM gear symbolizing this fresh start, fans in Chicago are hopeful that Hall will once again become the game-changing forward he’s been in the past and help lift the Blackhawks to new heights.

Photo Credit: Patrick McDermott