The Daily: Bedard Tops McKenzie’s Rankings

The silly narratives that the Chicago Blackhawks would strongly consider a boatload of trades for the top overall pick can end. One of the most trusted names in prospect scouting, if not the most trusted name still has Connor Bedard far and away as the top choice.

Momentous occasion today: I have to get dressed up. Hope I remember how to tie a tie.

Quick Matvei Michkov update: He arrives in the U.S. in the next day or so and will be in Nashville by early next week.

His agent Max Moliver has scheduled interviews with multiple clubs,… https://t.co/CgXciFfUmg

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 22, 2023

Which is hardly shocking. Bedard is the most anticipated prospect since Auston Matthews, but likely, the most comparable to Connor McDavid. The rankings didn’t shift too much but there were some interesting movements.

Blackhawks Prospects from CHN All Over the Place

Beyond Bedard, many of the draft profile players were across the board but it became abundantly clear to get some of those targets, it’ll have to come in the way of a trade up.

Possible? Yes. Costly? Depends on how you define it.

Regardless, McKenzie’s numbers are in and potential targets are there–which might cost a bit more but would be worth the price if they’re in the NHL sooner rather than later.

Blackhawks In Case You Missed It

• The Blackhawks re-signed forward Joey Anderson to a one-year deal
• How did the targets look for the Chicago Blackhawks after Bob McKenzie’s rankings?
• On Pizza and McDavid: Bedard talks to TSN

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney needs to follow the lead of another great Boston GM

Detroit: Connor Bedard will be playing a preaseason tilt against the Detroit Red Wings

Florida: A year ago the Florida Panthers hired Paul Maurice. Turned out to be a terrific move

Montreal: A different spin on the draft approach for the Montreal Canadiens

Pittsburgh: A look at Gabe Perreault, and whether the Pittsburgh Penguins could snag him

Vegas: Did the Vegas Golden Knights circumvent the cap?

Washington: The Washington Capitals will be targeting the best player available with the eighth overall pick