3 NHL stars Chicago Blackhawks should sign to compliment Connor Bedard ft. James van Riemsdyk

By Evan Bell

Modified Jul 25, 2024 18:22 GMT

This offseason, the Chicago Blackhawks made some big moves to bolster their roster for the season ahead. After finishing bottom of the Western Central last season, team GM Kyle Davidson went to work this summer, bringing in some high-profile skaters to pair with Connor Bedard in his second campaign.

Most notably, the team signed Tyler Bertuzzi to a four-year deal worth a total of $22 million, and Teuvo Teravainen to a three-year deal worth $16.2 million. With an estimated $6 million left until they reach the salary cap, there are some available free agents Chicago could acquire.

While ideally, the team would look to bolster their defensive lines or bring in a top-tier netminder, their options are limited given their current cap situation. With that in mind, there are still a few players they could target.

3 players the Chicago Blackhawks should sign to help Connor Bedard in his second season

#1. Justin Schultz

Two-time Stanley Cup winner Justin Schultz is fresh off a two-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, which was worth a total of $6 million. While his best years are now behind him at 34 years old, Schultz has shown some impressive durability in the twilight years of his career that could be valuable for Chicago.

Given that, and the fact that he finished the 2022-23 playoffs with 10 points in 14 games, the Blackhawks could look to buy low on Schultz to bolster their roster, while also giving Connor Bedard another veteran to learn from. His presence on the defensive end would also be a huge asset for Chicago.

#2. James van Riemsdyk

James van Riemsdyk is currently sitting as a free agent after playing out his one-year contract with the Boston Bruins. While his best years are behind him, van Riemsdyk's play last season was well worth the $1 million Boston paid him.

Over 71 games, van Riemsdyk logged 38 points, before then finishing the postseason with five points in eleven games. While he certainly wouldn't turn Chicago into cup contenders, his play could give the team valuable minutes while offering veteran leadership for Connor Bedard.

#3. Tyler Johnson

Tyler Johnson recently played out the final year of his seven-year deal initially offered to him by the Tampa Bay Lightning. After spending the first four years of his contract playing for the Lightning, he finished out his contract with the Blackhawks.

Last season, Johnson played 67 regular season games for the team, logging 17 goals and 14 assists. While he's no longer the player who nearly averaged a point per game with the Lightning, Johnson's familiarity with the Blackhawks, along with his experience, should make him worth another look for Chicago.