Hockey

Blackhawks Bolster Fourth Line with Greenway and Byram in Draft‑Pick Deal

Acquisition aims to add physicality and depth as Chicago seeks to shed ‘soft’ reputation

A Strategic Move for the Blackhawks

Chicago Blackhawks have completed a trade that brings Bowen Byram and Jordan Greenway to the Windy City, surrendering the 2026 first‑round pick, the 45th overall selection, and defenseman Louis Crevier in exchange.

Greenway, who has battled injuries that limited him to 40 games last season, brings a blend of size, grit and offensive upside that the Blackhawks hope to unlock on the fourth line.

Fourth‑Line Outlook

The coaching staff projects a lineup that could feature Cole Smith, Sacha Boisvert, Ryan Greene and AJ Spellacy alongside Greenway, creating a competitive mix of speed and physicality.

General manager Kyle Davidson emphasized that the move is part of a broader effort to shed the ‘soft’ label that has followed the franchise in recent years, seeking to impose a harder edge against opponents.

If the Blackhawks can keep Greenway healthy for at least 50 games in the 2026‑27 campaign, the organization believes the new fourth line could provide a spark that translates into more wins.

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