As expected, rookie Connor Bedard is already putting together a strong case for the Calder Trophy this year. With 12 goals and 12 assists on the season, Bedard has been far and away the best rookie, and the best player on his team.
Perhaps the most impressive part of Bedard’s start to the season is that he’s doing it while being a member of this year’s Blackhawks. The team fell to 9-19-1 Thursday night with an ugly loss in Seattle. Due to a combination of injuries and a lack of talent on the ice, Bedard doesn’t have a ton of help.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson sat down for a Q&A with Mark Lazerus of The Athletic Thursday night, who asked the GM a number of questions including potential upcoming moves. When asked whether the front office would try to help Bedard by acquiring more talent, Davidson had an answer that left fans somewhat optimistic:
“Yeah, it’s definitely something we’re always talking about.”
– GM Kyle Davidson
However, the general manager eventually followed that up by harnessing expectations of a move coming soon:
“It does not feel that urgent to me. It’s not something I’m against, but it’s not urgent.”
– GM Kyle Davidson
If Davidson’s comments are any indication, with the trade deadline a few months away, we shouldn’t necessarily expect a move to bring in talent. The team may be active at the deadline, but any trades will probably be getting rid of NHL skaters to keep building for the future.
While a move to get Bedard help may not be set to happen anytime soon, the team will certainly be looking to make one before next season. Chicago has only three forwards, including Bedard, signed beyond this season. With more than $50 million in projected cap space, the Blackhawks will undoubtedly get their young star some help.
It’s clear that surrounding Bedard with proven talent would help the rookie’s development, but with the Blackhawks more focused on next year’s draft lottery than the playoffs, a move to bring players in will have to wait. Bedard will have to make do with the current roster for now and hope his shrewd GM will help him out next season.
