In the latest edition of our THW Chicago summer series, we’re spotlighting the new and returning players joining the Chicago Blackhawks via free agency and trades this offseason. Among the new faces at training camp this September will be a player who isn’t entirely new to Chicago. Forward Teuvo Teravainen, after eight seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, is making a return to the team that originally drafted him 18th overall in the 2012 NHL Draft.
A Blackhawks’ Beginning**
Teravainen’s journey with the Blackhawks began when he was drafted in 2012. He stayed in Finland to play two more seasons with his junior club, Jokerit Helsinki. Following their 2013-14 season, he had a brief stint in North America, playing three games with the Blackhawks and five with the Rockford IceHogs. Interestingly, it was Kyle Davidson, long before he became the general manager, who greeted Teravainen at the airport upon his arrival in Chicago.
Teravainen became a regular player for the Blackhawks in the 2014-15 season. He split his time between the IceHogs (39 games) and the Blackhawks (34 games), and was part of their playoff run that ended with a Stanley Cup victory. During the regular season, the Finnish forward contributed four goals and nine points, adding another four goals and ten points in 18 postseason games—a promising start to his NHL career.
In the 2015-16 season, Teravainen continued to develop, scoring 13 goals and 35 points in 78 games. His progress made him an appealing asset, and he was included in a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes to help facilitate the move of Bryan Bickell’s $4 million contract.
As a prospect, Teravainen was highly regarded for his offensive skills and play-making abilities. His smaller stature (5-foot-11, 191 pounds) drew comparisons to Patrick Kane. Despite his potential, Teravainen struggled to secure a consistent role in head coach Joel Quenneville’s system, primarily playing on the third and fourth lines even though many believed he had the capabilities of a top-six forward. This changed when he joined the Hurricanes.
**Teravainen Thrives in Carolina**
Teravainen found greater success with the Hurricanes, emerging as one of their key players. Over eight seasons and 555 games with the team, he tallied 138 goals and 277 assists, totaling 415 points. He also contributed 19 goals and 39 points in 65 playoff games. To gain further insight into Teravainen’s time with the Hurricanes, I consulted Zach Martin, a THW credentialed staff writer for the Hurricanes.
In summary, Teravainen’s career has come full circle as he returns to the Blackhawks. His initial stint with the team showcased his potential, which he realized fully during his tenure with the Hurricanes. Now back in Chicago, Teravainen brings a wealth of experience and proven talent, promising an exciting addition to the team’s roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
