The Chicago Blackhawks have been long searching for the perfect linemate for Connor Bedard, and the latest name drop in the grapevine is the perfect one to target.
Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch, per Darren Dreger, is "likely going to test free agency" this summer. The 30-year-old had one of his best outings this season, scoring 33 goals and 66 points in 79 games. Neither side is reportedly struggling to make ends meet, which gives many teams, including the Blackhawks, the perfect opportunity to strike.
The winger Connor Bedard has been missing
Since entering the league in 2023, Bedard has yet to play alongside a true top-line running mate for an extended period. While Tyler Bertuzzi put up a strong case to be that, it's clear that something is still missing. He doesn't need a linemate who mirrors him; he needs one who complements him, and Tuch fits that description perfectly.
Tuch is a power forward at heart. At 6-foot-4, he thrives in puck battles, wins possession along the boards, and creates opportunities in difficult areas of the ice. If Bedard isn't open for a pass, he has no problem finishing it. He possesses one of the league's best shooting percentages, averaging 13% throughout his career. Opponents couldn't focus on just Bedard because he is a legitimate scoring threat himself, posting multiple 30-goal seasons.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Tuch is one of the league's top two-way forwards. Chicago's top six has lacked established defensive wingers, and he would help address that issue. He is trusted on the penalty kill, frequently matches up against top opponents, and consistently contributes in all three zones.
He fits the timeline for the Blackhawks. Bedard is entering the stage of his career where he needs established NHL talent to take that next step. While Tuch is 30, he remains a productive top-six forward who could help them become more competitive in the short term.
The biggest concern with signing Tuch would be the contract. Some projections suggest he would seek the max term of seven years at around $10 million AAV. If true, the team could find themselves holding on till he's 37 years old. Should his production decline significantly in the later years of his contract, the deal could become a burden on the salary cap.
Signing Tuch would certainly carry some risk, particularly given the likely cost of his contract. However, few players carry the same skill he possesses. If the Blackhawks are looking for a winger capable of elevating Bedard's game while helping the team reach the playoffs, he deserves some serious consideration.
