Blackhawks Rumors: Insider Links Big-Name Free Agent to Chicago

The Chicago Blackhawks are going to win the 2023 NHL Draft as they're in line to select Connor Bedard with the first overall pick. Bedard looks to be a generational talent who could easily steer the Blackhawks in the right direction sometime over the next decade. While 'Bedsy' won't be able to do it all himself, look for Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson to try and surround their blue-chip prospect with some offensive talent.

Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts mentioned the possibility of Vladimir Tarasenko signing in Chicago. The Russian winger is an unrestricted free agent and the Blackhawks have a ton of cap space to use and players in need, as they only have nine forwards signed at the moment.

Tarasenko finished last season with the New York Rangers after a mid-season deal from the St Louis Blues. He recorded a total of 50 points in 69 games and showed late in the season he's still very capable of putting up points in bunches.

With the way he sees the ice and with his hockey sense, Bedard and Tarasenko could do some magic together. The right-shot/left-shot combo also is a nice compliment and if they can find some toughness for their other wing position, the Blackhawks could surprise early on next season.

Chicago currently has a projected $37 million in cap space and while they won't be looking to bring in a ton of veterans, the 31-year-old Tarasenko is someone who could be on their radar in a couple of weeks when free agency kicks off July 1.

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