NHL: Winnipeg Jets at Chicago Blackhawks Apr 12, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Frank Nazar (91) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Chicago Blackhawks draft Connor Bedard major forward help with No. 3 pick

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 7:37 PM ET

The Chicago Blackhawks were expected to take a forward with the No. 3 pick in the draft. With 2022 first-round pick Frank Nazar and 2023 No. 1 pick Connor Bedard on the roster, the Blackhawks needed to take a player who could take over at wing to help those two budding stars.

With the No. 3 pick in the draft, the Blackhawks took Anton Frondell.

The Chicago Blackhawks needed offensive help

Offense was an issue for the Blackhawks last season. Chicago was ranked 26th in goal production, scoring just 224 goals last season, an average of 2.73 goals per game. The Blackhawks ranked 25th in assists, with just 379 assists.

The lack of offensive production cost Chicago in the win/loss column. The Blackhawks finished the campaign with the second-worst record (25-46-11).

…likely won’t make an immediate impact as a rookie like Bedard did in 2023-24, but he should help boost the offense when the young core led by Bedard and Nazar are ready to compete deep in the playoffs in a few seasons.

(This story is breaking news. We will provide additional information on the pick.)

NHL: Chicago Blackhawks at Carolina Hurricanes Jan 30, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) celebrates his goal against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

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

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