Blackhawks linked to unique defenseman Connor Bedard would love

The Chicago Blackhawks are absolutely loaded with young defensemen, but they lack established veteran talent at the position.

While many feel that the Blackhawks should prioritize targeting a wing to put alongside of Connor Bedard this offseason, they may actually decide that pursuing a quality defenseman should be their primary action.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Chicago won’t bring in a winger, as well. After all, the Blackhawks have a nice amount of cap space, and they possess an impressive stash of draft capital that they can use in trades. But adding a defenseman seems like almost a guarantee.

But who will Chicago pursue for its blueline?

Well, Jim Precourt of The Hockey Writers has identified a very intriguing potential target for the Blackhawks: Darren Raddysh.

Chicago Blackhawks could sign Darren Raddysh

Raddysh is hitting free agency this offseason and should command plenty of interest, but Precourt feels he would be a great fit in Chicago.

“Chicago needs a puck-moving, offensive-minded defenseman. Raddysh coming into the Windy City would be just that,” Precourt wrote. “Raddysh isn’t too old, but will still be able to offer a veteran presence and will slot in just fine with the other young defenders on the team. Raddysh played on the right side of the blue line with the Lightning, so putting him next to a defensive-minded type player like Wyatt Kaiser could be beneficial for both of them. However, Raddysh’s play back in his own zone has gotten better.”

Raddysh ranked third among defensemen with 22 goals during the 2025-26 campaign. By contrast, no Blackhawks blueliner even logged double-digit scores this past season, with Louis Crevier leading the way with seven.

Chicago has a pretty loaded depth chart at the position, but most of its defensemen are vastly unproven.

That’s where Raddysh would come into play. Now 30 years old, the Toronto native spent his first five NHL seasons in Tampa Bay. His final year with the Lightning represented a breakout campaign, as he finished with 70 points.

Bedard could certainly use another weapon like Raddysh on the ice. Even if he isn’t a winger, he has clear offensive ability, both as a scorer and as a passer. It would not be the least bit surprising if the Blackhawks made a push for him.

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