Connor Bedard has an elite-level and long-term Blackhawks linemate on the way

CHICAGO HOCKEY INSIDER | NHL TEAM | CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS PUBLICATION Sam Walker January 1, 2026 (11:47) Connor Bedard needs help, and the Chicago Blackhawks may already have Roman Kantserov coming as a top-line winger. Chicago has tried to plug that spot with veterans, but the mix still feels temporary. Andre Burakovsky has 23 points, yet he is not a long-term answer. Burakovsky, 30, was a 2013 first-rounder by Washington and carries a $5.5 million cap hit, so he is more bridge than cornerstone for Chicago long-term. Bedard is driving offense, posting 44 points in 31 games; despite missing time with a shoulder injury, he still leads the team in points. The standings show where the rebuild sits now; Chicago is 14-18-4-3 through 39 games for 35 points, and their lack of offensive depth continues to show with Connor Bedard out due to injury. When you are chasing games, you need a winger who finishes chances, not one who only eats minutes. Coach Jeff Blashill keeps shuffling the left side, hunting a winger who can match Bedard's pace. Roman Kantserov fits Chicago Blackhawks' top line As a fan, a homegrown sniper arriving soon is the fun part of this grind. Kantserov, a 2023 second-round pick 44th overall, has 26 goals and 45 points in 38 KHL games for Metallurg. He plays with a quick release and does not need much space in the slot. Put him on Bedard's right side and the puck can move low to high, then backdoor for a one-timer. Chicago drafted Anton Frondell third overall in 2025, and he has 10 goals and 15 points in 25 games for Djurgårdens IF. He can play center or wing, giving the staff another top-six lever later. Frank Nazar has 21 points, and Ryan Greene has 14 as the NHL audition continues. The next milestone is simple: keep building around Bedard and see which young winger grabs that top-line job for good in Chicago soon.