The franchise is pinning its hopes for a rapid turnaround on three young centers who are expected to form the backbone of the 2027‑28 lineup. Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar and Anton Frondell will each operate primarily from the middle of the ice, giving the team a solid core of playmaking and two‑way ability.
Wings Must Be Upgraded
To complement that center trio, the organization knows it must acquire elite wingers who can finish chances and stretch defenses. The front office has identified the need for speed, skill and scoring depth on the outer lanes, and is weighing several avenues to fill those spots.
Potential Moves and Targets
Big‑name trade candidates such as Jason Robertson and Dylan Larkin are on the radar, with the belief that their offensive firepower could reshape the entire forward group. The Blackhawks are also open to free‑agent signings and strategic draft selections that could bring immediate impact or long‑term upside.
Internal prospects add another layer of intrigue. Roman Kantserov, a KHL‑caliber goal scorer, could emerge as a star sniper if his current pace translates to the NHL, while Ryan Greene’s versatility may see him shift to the wing in the bottom six if needed. Meanwhile, Tyler Bertuzzi’s recent 30‑goal season has sparked trade chatter, though his long‑term fit remains uncertain.
The front office emphasizes that any combination of trades, signings or draft picks must align with the developmental timeline of the three central anchors, ensuring that the team’s chemistry improves faster than the consecutive 31st‑place finishes that have plagued the club in recent years.