Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks is currently struggling, facing an extended goal drought. “I could name 100 things,” he remarked on November 22 when asked how he could improve. “It’s been frustrating, for sure. I just don’t feel like I’m really doing anything.”
After the Hawks’ overtime defeat against the Philadelphia Flyers on November 23, Bedard’s difficulties persisted, as he has gone 12 games without a goal and has been scoreless in eight of those matches. He also failed to register a shot in back-to-back games. Given his history of high scoring at all levels, including his rookie year, it’s easy to see how this situation could be deeply frustrating for someone so passionate about hockey.
Assuming Bedard is doing everything he can to be effective, it’s time for the Blackhawks to support their young star in maximizing his potential. Here are some considerations for the team moving forward.
**Establishing a Comfortable Line for Bedard**
In their recent win against the Florida Panthers, Bedard played alongside new linemates Jason Dickinson and Joey Anderson but did not register any shots. The same lack of production occurred in the game against the Flyers, even while also playing with Taylor Hall and Teuvo Teravainen. Now may be the best time to disregard analytics and constant line changes and instead pair Bedard with players he feels comfortable with, like Nick Foligno, regardless of whether Foligno fits the profile of a first-line forward. The priority is for Bedard to feel supported and focused on the ice. Foligno has demonstrated effective leadership with both Bedard and the team overall. Meanwhile, due to insufficient performance from forwards, Anderson will be the other player for now.
**Identifying Bedard’s Ideal Partner**
Great duos throughout hockey history—like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl—feature top players who excel alongside others. Bedard needs a compatible teammate who can help him thrive on the ice.
Currently, the Blackhawks sit 30th in the league for goals per game (2.35) and have the third-lowest five-on-five scoring (30 goals). None of the current players seem likely to help elevate the first line’s performance. Although the Blackhawks have a rich pool of prospects, most are not yet prepared for NHL competition. Nonetheless, Frank Nazar is showing promise with the Rockford IceHogs, leading with seven goals, eight assists, and 15 points in 12 games. While there are aspects of his game to refine, and the team has indicated he won’t be called up soon, a shift may occur if the Blackhawks’ offensive struggles and Bedard’s frustrations continue.
**Considering a Trade**
The Blackhawks have been linked to potential trades for about a month, with recent discussions involving Flyers center Morgan Frost, primarily aimed at bolstering the second-line center position rather than directly aiding Bedard. While it is challenging to execute trades early in the season since teams aren’t as eager to move players, as the season progresses, opportunities may arise for players that could benefit Bedard, even if just temporarily.
A trade doesn’t necessarily need to involve a young player or a long-term commitment. A veteran who can contribute for a year or two would be a significant benefit until younger prospects like Nazar or Oliver Moore are ready for the NHL. For instance, the Toronto Maple Leafs might soon face roster decisions when players return from injury and may be in need of draft picks, which the Blackhawks can offer.
The incoming player could potentially just finish the season in Chicago, aligning with the Hawks’ chances for another top-three draft pick. The top three projected prospects for the 2025 Draft—James Hagens, Porter Martone, and Roger McQueen—are all capable of entering the NHL swiftly.
The Blackhawks now have a few days to strategize on how to best support Bedard and enhance their overall offensive performance as they head into their next game. It will be intriguing to observe how the Blackhawks tackle this challenge in the days and weeks ahead.
