Blackhawks’ top offseason priority might irritate Connor Bedard

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Blackhawks’ top offseason priority might irritate Connor Bedard

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Matthew Schmidt | Last updated May 26, 2026 12:06 PM ET

When you look at the Chicago Blackhawks, you’ll immediately notice that they are in dire need of another wing alongside of Connor Bedard. Yes, they do have Tyler Bertuzzi, but that’s about it in terms of forward help for Bedard.

As a result, the Blackhawks are expected to pursue a top-flight winger this offseason, and they have already been linked to a bunch of them in both free agency and on the trade market. Chicago has some cap space to play with, and it is also teeming with draft capital to swing some deals.

But while the Blackhawks will almost surely add another offensive threat this summer, it may not be at the top of their to-do list.

Scott Powers of The Athletic has revealed some rather surprising intel in that regard, and it may irritate Bedard, who is slated to become a restricted free agent himself this July.

Chicago Blackhawks’ top priority could upset Connor Bedard

Mar 27, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) skates against the New York Rangers during the first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Chicago has missed the playoffs six years in a row, marking its longest drought since 1952. Yes, the Blackhawks have shown gradual improvement the last couple of seasons, but they need to start taking the necessary steps to reach that next level.

While you may think that would involve snatching another scorer for the forward line, Powers feels Chicago may have its sights set on different goals.

“I do think the Blackhawks’ priority this offseason is adding a quality defenseman, more so than adding a top-six forward,” Powers wrote. “Davidson’s hope is obviously that his young defensemen make huge strides this offseason and come back bigger and better, but he also can’t bank on that.”

Chicago is absolutely loaded with young defensemen, but it’s true that all of them are entirely unproven.

“Based on how the Blackhawks played late last season with so many young defensemen in the lineup, I can’t imagine [Kyle] Davidson is willing to take the risk of putting that same group on the ice and expecting different results. They need some support,” Powers added. “I could see the Blackhawks adding a left-handed, puck-moving defenseman.”

Keep in mind: Powers did not say Chicago won’t add another winger; he just thinks the Blackhawks will be more inclined to address their blueline first. Bedard will surely understand the thought process, but you do have to wonder if he’ll get annoyed if Chicago doesn’t also make it a point to get him some assistance.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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