Dale Tallon Firing Is an Opportunity Seized

The rumours of Dale Tallon's firing have continued for some time and despite the cache of the Bowman name, there is no guarantee that replacing Tallon with Stan Bowman is the right move for the Chicago Blackhawks. Apparently there has been tension in the Blackhawk head offices under the leadership of John McDonough, who joined the Blackhawks from the Chicago Cubs. While Rocky Wirtz has made a lot of great moves since replacing his father William, John McDonough's philosophy as President of the club has often conflicted with Tallon's and while reports cite the problems extending offer sheets to Restricted Free Agents in June, the likely issue behind the firing is conflict between McDonough and Tallon.

As with their firing of Denis Savard after 4 games in October, 2008, it leaves a bad taste in the mouth and leaves one doubting the whether the Blackhawks' have the class and professionalism of their Original Six rival. This will be cited as a turning point for the franchise and possibly even a step backward.