Connor Bedard’s season isn’t starting off as he had hoped, prompting many NHL analysts to discuss the possibility of shifting him to the wing.
The primary questions surrounding the Blackhawks are: ‘Who should play with Connor Bedard?’ and, less openly, ‘What is happening with Connor Bedard?’
After 18 games into his second NHL season, Bedard has accumulated 13 points—decent, but not close to the impact numbers the Blackhawks expected when they selected him. He was anticipated to be a consistent 100-point scorer and join the league’s elite, but he is currently not on pace to achieve that.
The coaching staff has frequently changed Bedard’s linemates, trying to find a combination that works, rotating players like Bertuzzi, Reichel, Hall, Donato, Foligno, and Teravainen around him. However, none of these efforts have succeeded. As this season evolves into another rebuilding year, the focus should be on enhancing Bedard’s development, yet his offensive output, which includes only three goals so far, has been disappointing. His lengthy goal streak from last season remains fresh in memory.
This situation isn’t due to a lack of talent or effort; some may attribute it to unfortunate puck luck, as his shooting percentage has dropped to under 6%, down from 10.7% last year.
Recent games against Dallas and Minnesota have raised concerns since Bedard generated fewer chances and shots. While they are tough opponents, franchise players typically find ways to shine even in challenging circumstances.
It might be time to reassess his position. Playing center requires more physicality, defensive duties, and tight play. The Blackhawks drafted Bedard to dominate offensively, not just to be a solid two-way center, and while he has made strides defensively, that’s not his primary role.
NHL experts discussed this on Hockey Night in Canada recently, speculating that switching Bedard to the wing might unlock his full potential. This change would allow him greater freedom to pursue offense, take advantage of open ice, and excel in transition.
In this role, he could emulate Nikita Kucherov’s style, orchestrating play from the right side with exceptional playmaking and an effective shot, paired with agile movement. Bedard possesses these skills and requires space, confidence, and support.
However, the Blackhawks’ lack of dependable centers complicates such a move, with players like Dickinson, Reichel, or Kurashev not instilling much confidence. Nevertheless, given that this season is aimed at fostering Bedard’s growth, prioritizing his offensive potential over center depth might be a worthwhile trade-off.
