Blackhawks’ Dustin Byfuglien ‘Next American Star’

Published in USA Hockey Magazine ‘Next American Star’ column April 2009

CHICAGO – In a day of banged-up economies, collapsing housing markets and difficult daily challenges, if you are  searching for an inspirational story, look no further than the Chicago Blackhawks forward Dustin Byfuglien.

Since being chosen in the late rounds of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Blackhawks, the 23-year-old Minneapolis native has beaten the odds and evolved from NHL prospect to becoming a permanent fixture on a revitalized Blackhawks’ roster.

While the ‘Hawks dress the youngest roster in the NHL and are building a winner around young superstars Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, Byfuglien is becoming a vital piece of the puzzle.

Looking to use Byfuglien’s hulking 6-foot-3 frame to create traffic in front of the net, Chicago moved the rugged defenseman to forward, and the move has paid huge dividends. Byfuglien responded with a breakout season in 2007-08 tallying 19 goals and 17 assists in just 67 games, finishing fifth on the team in scoring.

That same season, he recorded his first career hat trick in a span of just 5:39 against Phoenix on Nov. 30.

“At first I didn’t like the move because I didn’t have experience playing forward. I had no choice but to adapt so I did,” said Byfuglien. “Playing with good players like we have, I adapted quickly and now I’m pretty much there to stay.”

When asked about Byfuglien, Chicago head coach Joel Quenneville had nothing but praise for his young winger. “Buffs is one of those guys who no matter what line he’s on he gives us a contribution,” said Quenneville. “He’s got NHL size and ability. He’s a physical presence. We utilize his size around the net, and he’s got a tremendous shot. Buffs gives us versatility; we have played him on defense as well as forward and use him on the power play.”

The journey to the NHL was full of challenges for Byfuglien. He grew up in a single-parent family, living in a trailer behind his grandmother’s house.  (Click here for remaining article).