The Chicago Blackhawks have done the thing where they surround a promising No. 1 pick with short-term veteran talent to show him the ropes. Now, the Blackhawks need to find long-term solutions to aid in the development of Connor Bedard and a team that needs to start winning again.
New head coach Jeff Blashill and assistant coach Anders Sorensen like what the team has with its youth. But the Blackhawks must add savvy and experienced talent to start looking competent again.
The Chicago Blackhawks were linked to a veteran LW
Shayna Goldman and Murat Ates of The Athletic wrote about potential landing spots for 29-year-old left winger Nikolaj Ehlers in free agency. They named the Blackhawks as a promising suitor for the veteran.
“Chicago isn’t quite ready to (become a Stanley Cup contender) but has a lot of money to spend and a first-line, top-unit job alongside Connor Bedard on offer to this summer’s free agents,” they wrote. “Meanwhile, Ehlers is likely thinking long-term for his next contract — term that would buy Chicago time to continue its build.
“If the 29-year-old Ehlers is willing to move from the Cup-contending Jets to the 31st-place Blackhawks — and wait — then Chicago should be able to put together a compelling package of ice time, opportunity and money.
“For Chicago, the signing would be a clear indication to its market that the Blackhawks are on their way back — and motivation for fans to return the United Center to 100 percent capacity. Ehlers’ speed brings fans to their feet and he’s an easy sell in the community.”
Nikolaj Ehlers would need a big bag from the Blackhawks
Ehlers has been with the Winnipeg Jets since they drafted him with the No. 9 pick in the 2014 draft. He’s appeared in 674 games, recording 225 goals and 295 assists for 520 total points. The left-handed shooter scored five goals in eight playoff games this spring.
Ehlers would be a great get for general manager Kyle Davidson this offseason. But money would have to be the main driver for the Blackhawks to land him, as Chicago isn’t ready for the success Ehlers has enjoyed with the Jets recently.
In 15 games as a visitor to the United Center with the Jets, Ehlers has scored four goals and recorded four assists.
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Chicago Blackhawks have Connor Bedard question to answer before draft, per insider
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