The Chicago Blackhawks were one of just a few teams eliminated from postseason contention in March, therefore it hasn’t been enjoyable to watch them in 2023–24.
It’s acceptable to say that the Blackhawks won’t even record 55 points at the end of the 2023–24 campaign. While it may be more realistic for the team to make under-the-radar signings this summer, general manager Kyle Davidson has this squad completely rebuilt. With plenty of salary space for the upcoming offseason, he may surprise us with a huge signing or two.
Young teams like the Blackhawks may be entertaining in the final stretch of the regular season, even though the on-ice performance hasn’t been particularly exciting or difficult to watch on many times. They get to play spoiler, which might give them confidence boosts, and they might surprise fans with one or more historic upsets
Furthermore, exceptionally gifted youths such as Connor Bedard will perform nearly every evening. Bedard leads the Blackhawks in points and goals this season despite playing in just 54 games as of March 17. If he had played in 82 games this season, his total would have been 80 points and 32 goals.
One of the main reasons to continue watching the Blackhawks is Connor Bedard.
We have witnessed Bedard’s continued improvement since his recovery from a jaw injury. Six goals, fourteen assists, and a 12.5 shooting percentage have netted him 20 points in his first fifteen games since returning to action. In other words, Bedard has averaged 1.33 points a game throughout that time. For laughs, let’s round that figure to 82 games, or 109 points, to the closest whole number.
Even if you don’t agree with the three main points made here—one of which will also feature a number of other young players—Bedard’s presence should be enough to make every game over the season’s last month exciting to watch. But if you’d like a few additional justifications for watching this thrilling team game, continue reading.