Jason Dickinson has a distinct vision of what the Chicago Blackhawks might look like two years from now — a vision that now includes him.
“You’re sitting here (today) talking about potential — this is what he can be, this is what he’s going to do — you’re going to start seeing it,” the Hawks forward said Tuesday. “That’s going to be the biggest difference.
“They’ve built a huge network of prospects. … It’s going to be those guys that come forward that push the team ahead.”
While Dickinson can see the Hawks signing a high-scoring forward or top defenseman in free agency, “it’s going to be mainly built inside the locker room, built inside the organization,” he said. “Just players growing, getting better and taking on more of the burden.
“Right now you’ve got a young guy that’s got to play 25 minutes a night, sometimes maybe a little bit out of his element. In two years, that’s going to be his element. He’s going to be confident and he’s going to thrive in it.”
Dickinson, 28, hopes to be one of the catalysts to help get them there. He and the Hawks agreed to terms on a two-year, $8.5 million contract, the team announced Tuesday.
The deal carries a $4.25 million annual salary-cap hit and keeps Dickinson in Chicago through the 2025-26 season.
Dickinson wanted more — not necessarily more money but more time.
“I see something here,” he said. “I’m not going to lie, I would’ve liked a few more years because I see what’s down the line. I see the potential, I see where things can go and I would love to be a part of that.”
But he appreciates the commitment the Hawks showed.
“It’s nice to be somewhere you’re wanted,” he said. “I’m appreciative of (general manager) Kyle (Davidson) and his team and my guys for getting something done because it’s a place I want to be.”
Heading into Tuesday’s home game against the San Jose Sharks, Dickinson had a career-high 14 goals — on pace for 27 this season — along with seven assists.
“Jason adds a unique two-way game to our lineup and his compete level is consistently strong every night,” Davidson said in a statement. “He’s showing his offensive game this year, which has been a huge lift to our team.
“His leadership has been instrumental, and the impact has been evident around the room, particularly with our young guys. We’re excited to bring him back and to see him continue to grow with our team.”
In some ways, Dickinson’s ascension came…