Concerning Statistic for Connor Bedard: Blackhawks May Be Forced to Make Difficult Decision

There is no doubt that Connor Bedard is going to be an elite NHL player, but his role with the Chicago Blackhawks may have to change.

Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks have faced a lot of difficulties this year, and their rookie star has been a main focus.

He has picked things up since head coach Luke Richardson was fired on December 5th, but one particular stat is especially concerning.

As the Hawks' #1 centreman, Bedard is expected to not only contribute offensively, but also defensively. He doesn't need to be Patrice Bergeron, but his faceoff percentage has to improve.

Bedard holds the lowest faceoff win percentage in the NHL among regular centremen, at 34.1%, and that simply isn't good enough.

With this considered, Bedard may be more suited to play as a winger, as his offensive dynamism can shine with less defensive responsibility.

One Blackhawks fan noted that Bedard's playstyle is more reminiscent of a Patrick Kane; a creative, energetic, and offensively-gifted forward, than a true number one centreman.

The issue, however, is that the Blackhawks have no true options to fill a number one centre role. This could be addressed in the 2024 NHL entry draft, where names like James Hagens, Michael Misa, and Anton Frondell will be available for the team.

Whether or not the Blackhawks choose to change Bedard's position, there is no doubt he is a special player... he may just be a special winger.

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