Chicago Blackhawks hit the Bedard Jackpot – Will Pick #1

The Chicago Blackhawks hit the NHL Lottery jackpot. Chicago will be choosing first in the 2023 NHL Draft and will be taking generational talent Connor Bedard with the first pick.

As previously written about on Chicago Hockey Now, the Blackhawks had a greater chance of landing below their intended spot at third. No matter–they’re now picking first.

This has effects that could be unbelievably franchise altering as Bedard is arguably the most celebrated prospect headed to Chicago since Michael Jordan arrived to the Windy City.

What This All Means for the Blackhawks

Kyle Davidson has always shown himself to be shrewd in terms of making deals and making great choices when given the opportunity. Both Kevin Korchinski (2022 seventh overall) and Frank Nazar (2022 13th overall) were lauded by analysts and draft experts. After a season of play following their drafting, Korchinski was dynamite in the Western Hockey League while Nazar posted respectable numbers after spending the first four months of his freshman year at the University of Michigan recovering from an injury.

Now the Blackhawks are adding a top-tier, franchise altering player. One can only speculate what Davidson will do next.

Chicago also sits pretty with Tampa Bay’s first-round pick (20th overall) and four second-round picks.

Chicago Hockey Now will have more on the draft reaction as well as more in-depth pieces profiling players that could land at #20. But boy, oh boy, there’s no doubt who they’re taking with number one.

Catch your breath, Chicago. It’s a big win for the organization.