The Chicago Blackhawks are facing challenges with scoring. Currently ranking as one of the lowest teams in the league with an average of just 2.57 goals per game, they finished last in scoring in the NHL last season.
This season, the Blackhawks are looking to improve their offensive output, especially with a healthy Taylor Hall expected to contribute more than just a handful of games, alongside new additions Tyler Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen, and a more seasoned Connor Bedard in his second year. However, their performance has been underwhelming; they’ve netted only 11 goals at even strength over seven games, and their expected goals stand at just 13.41. This indicates they aren’t being completely shut down by elite goaltending, as evidenced by former Blackhawk Kevin Lankinen’s .912 save percentage against them recently.
Given the Blackhawks’ offensive struggles, it may be time to make changes to the top line, especially since Bedard has only managed one goal in seven games. Although he leads the team with 25 shots, finding the net has proven difficult, suggesting it might be wise to adjust his linemates.
At 37, Nick Foligno, the veteran captain, brings valuable leadership but may not be the ideal partner for maximizing Bedard’s offensive potential. Instead of keeping Foligno alongside Bedard and Teuvo Teravainen, the Blackhawks could benefit from moving Taylor Hall into that position, as Hall has shown improvement in recent games after recovering from an injury.
Pairing Hall with Bedard and Teravainen might be the solution the team needs, especially as opponents increasingly focus on shutting down Bedard’s impact on the power play and at even strength. Bedard would benefit from playing with skillful linemates who can match his drive.
Promoting Hall to the top line could also enhance the performance of the bottom six. Foligno and Jason Dickinson have previously worked well together alongside Joey Anderson, and Foligno has thrived in a third-line role. He can continue to provide leadership while helping strengthen the team overall.
