It’s never too early for hockey betting fans to start making picks for Stanley Cup futures, especially with all the activity this offseason on the free-agent market.

Even before they made their big splash by signing Marian Hossa and John Madden, the Chicago Blackhawks, a great northbet to start, already looked poised to step into San Jose’s shoes as Detroit’s greatest challenger. After all, they’re a young team, full of great talent, and they already made the Conference Final this season.

Now you add Marian Hossa to the mix? Sheesh. The Hawks look like they may be a bigger favorite than the Red Wings, even. The blueline is absurd – Duncan Keith, Cam Barker, Brent Seabrook? Awesome. Brian Campbell was supposed to be the centerpiece, but now it’s clear Chicago doesn’t even need him. If they’re smart, they trade him to a team who can spare a goaltender, as Cristobal Huet isn’t a sure bet between the pipes.

Now Marian Hossa joins an offense that already boasts Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp, Andrew Ladd and Dave Bolland? This team is practically the envy of the league. I won’t be the least bit surprised if they reach the final. However, with goaltending a question mark, Marian Hossa could very well end up on the losing end of the final for the third straight season.