The NHL choosing not to send its players to this year’s Winter Olympics provided an opportunity for the world’s non-NHL talent to put on a showcase. Germany’s Dominik Kahun impressed the Chicago Blackhawks enough to earn himself an entry-level contract.
Key information
Position: Center/Left wing
Birth date: July 2, 1995 (age 23)
Acquired via: Free agency
Most recent stop: Red Bull EHC Munchen — DEL
Size: 5’11, 174 pounds
Contract: Two-year, entry-level contract with $940,000 salary cap hit
Last year’s ranking: N/A
Breakdown
Kahun looked impressive at the Olympics, being a key part of Germany’s shocking silver-medal finish where they upset Sweden and Canada on their way to the gold-medal game. He totaled two goals and three assists in seven tournament games.
His numbers at the World Championships dipped a little, dropping from five points in seven games to three in just as many games. But it should be noted that unlike the Olympics, Kahun faced some NHL talent at Worlds.
Kahun, however, excelled in Germany’s DEL with Red Bull EHC Munchen. In the past three DEL seasons, Kahun scored at least 30 points in 42 games en route to winning the league title. His career stats show he can get it done internationally, but the question still remains whether or not he can translate it to the slightly different North American game at the professional level. He scored 71 points (22 goals, 49 points) in 101 OHL games for Sudbury from 2012-14.
Kahun isn’t a pure goalscorer, he’s more of a playmaker, as every year his assists outnumber his goals. His playing style is a sneaky, fast style of play that is best used to setup his teammates.
What’s next in 2018-19?
It’s a tough call to make. If Kahun plays center, he’ll be battling Marcus Kruger and David Kampf for a roster spot on the third or fourth line in camp. If he’s played left wing, he’ll be battling Chris Kunitz, Victor Ejdsell, and a host of other young players for a spot.
What’s unique about Kahun, however, is his contract contains a clause where he can go home to play in the DEL should he not make the big club out of camp, rather than going to the AHL with the Rockford IceHogs.
Although, if Kahun doesn’t make the team, the AHL might be best for him to acclimated to the North American style of play needed to make the team next year.
Editor’s note: This is Nick Rogers’ first article with Second City Hockey. He’ll be a staff writer with us going forward. Welcome him to the crew.