The Chicago Blackhawks’ offseason is officially over! Training camp officially begins with player physicals on Wednesday, September 18, and the first practice on Thursday, September 19.
The Blackhawks’ first exhibition game will be on Wednesday, September 25, when they host the Detroit Red Wings. A lot has happened during the summer, creating an underlying sense of hope and enthusiasm in Chicago. when we prepare for the 2024-25 season, let’s look at four major storylines to follow when camp begins.
Who Will be Connor Bedard’s Linemates?
This is by far the most important storyline, so let’s get right to it. At the close of last season, the Blackhawks announced that they were ready to move forward with their rebuild. Connor Bedard, their first-round draft pick in 2023, gives them a significant advantage. Despite a strong debut season, Bedard struggled at times with little or no support around him. One individual, no matter how talented, simply cannot accomplish it alone. Especially if they are only 18 years old and completely new to the NHL.
The Blackhawks understood this and addressed it appropriately during the offseason. They added five senior forwards to the mix and expect some injured players to return to full health this season. The organization is clearly trying to build around Bedard as they select their top six forwards. So, what are our options? I will divide it into three scenarios.
Blackhawks New Additions
Most people believe that this is the most plausible setup. Why wouldn’t the newly acquired Teuvo Teravainen and Tyler Bertuzzi be Bedard’s linemates? After all, they’re both very experienced veterans who will know how to compliment this emerging potential. Last season, Bedard had no one who could keep up with him (more on Philipp Kurashev later).
Teravainen and Bertuzzi would most certainly not only keep up with Bedard, but also find ways to profit on his abilities. One or both of them may easily be deployed alongside the young phenom.
Blackhawks’ Current Veterans
Let us not forget Taylor Hall, who was brought in to teach Bedard last season. Unfortunately, a torn ACL limited him to just ten games. Now that he is healthy, Hall could easily line up next to Bedard.
