NHL Rumors: Elliotte Friedman reports multiple teams including Chicago Blackhawks are on the hunt for centers

By ARJUN B

Modified Oct 24, 2024 06:19 GMT

NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman reported on his "32 Thoughts" podcast that the Nashville Predators, Calgary Flames, and Chicago Blackhawks are on the hunt for centers.

According to Friedman, Predators GM Barry Trotz acknowledged the team's need for a center, saying:

"No one is trading anyone right now. I would like to get a center, but no one is giving their centermen away."

The Predators have struggled early this season without a solid center, as evidenced by Colton Sissons starting between Jonathan Marchessault and Steven Stamkos in their first win on Tuesday against the Boston Bruins.

The Flames are in a similar situation, according to Friedman. Their faceoff disadvantage was apparent in a recent game against Seattle when they didn't have a right-shot center taking the draw. With Elias Lindholm traded, Calgary lacks depth down the middle. GM Craig Conroy told Sportsnet's Eric Francis,

"Sending a first-round pick for a guy who would be here for a year doesn't make much sense. But if it was a first-round pick for a guy who would be here long term, we would be open to that."

Friedman says the situation is comparable for the Chicago Blackhawks when it comes to needing help at the center position. He summarizes the theme across these teams succinctly:

"Centres for everyone!"

With GMs hesitant to overpay for short-term solutions, it may take time before significant trades materialize.

Taylor Hall's comments about Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard

Chicago Blackhawks forward Taylor Hall has been impressed with the play and mentality of Connor Bedard so far this season. Hall, who notched his 700th career NHL point on Tuesday against Vancouver, has noticed a strong desire from Bedard to improve on both ends of the ice.

"It's difficult to do everything and be an 18-year-old centerman," Hall said of Bedard (as per dailyfaceoff.com). "He's done great with it. We've all really enjoyed being around him."

Hall pointed out Bedard's increased defensive awareness and his drive to become a more complete two-way player. He also praised the young center's strong work ethic.

"His work ethic is infectious. Maybe a bit too much - he spends like an hour on the morning of a game skating and shooting," Hall said. "I think maybe he'll learn that there's only so much in the gas tank over 82 games. But you don't fault him for that just because he loves hockey and he wants to get better and wants to do better for the team."

Through seven games this season for the Chicago Blackhawks, Bedard has a goal and six assists.