Hawks join Traverse City tourney group

The annual Traverse City tournament for NHL rookies and prospects is always a great preview to the season for fans in those late off season withdrawal stages.

There are eight teams playing in the event and while teams such as the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes give the event some eastern representation, there is usually a distinct Midwest flavor with teams made up of up and comers from the Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, Columbus Blue Jackets and Minnesota Wild taking part.

This fall, the inclusion of the other Midwest entry — the Chicago BlackHawks will take part in the event which generally divides teams into two three team pools for round robin games, then runs a championship day that sees the teams cross over for seventh place, fifth place, third place and championship games.

The event is held on the week leading up to training camp — along with several other tournaments around USA and Canada for other teams, giving coaches and scouts a chance to look at some of the younger talent in the organization and make decisions on whether or not to invite some of the players to the main NHL camp that starts the following week.