3 reasons why the Chicago Blackhawks DO NOT need another defenseman

As the 2024-25 season comes to a close on April 17, all eyes are on the 2025 NHL Draft for the Chicago Blackhawks.

Matthew Schaefer is projected to go No. 1 overall in the 2025 NHL Draft. However, Schaefer is a defenseman, and the Blackhawks don't need another defenseman.

Chicago's defense is already stacked with young talent. What they need is another forward who can help out Connor Bedard.

Here are three reasons why Chicago doesn't need to draft another defenseman.

1. A Deep Pool of Young Defenseman

The Blackhawks have built one of the most talented young defense groups in the NHL.

Led by 2024 No. 2 overall pick Artyom Levshunov, this young core includes names like Kevin Korchinski, Ethan Del Mastro, Wyatt Kaiser, Louis Crevier, Alex Vlasic, Taige Harding, and Sam Rinzel.

Levshunov, a two-way defenseman from Michigan State, plays with poise and aggression. His puck-moving skills are key as the Blackhawks continue with their rebuild.

Korchinski continues to develop his offensive skills while improving his defensive play.

Rinzel wrapped up a standout sophomore season at the University of Minnesota with 32 points (10 goals, 22 assists) in 40 games. In his first six NHL games, he showed poise and elite puck-moving skills, highlighting his potential to become a top-four defenseman for the Blackhawks.

Del Mastro and Kaiser bring strong AHL experience to the roster. Crevier (6-foot-8, 228 pounds), and Harding (6-foot-6, 235 pounds) add a physical presence. Vlasic has emerged as a reliable shutdown defender.

Veteran Connor Murphy, under contract through the 2025-26 season, could serve as a mentor for the young core.

2. Physicality on the Blue Line

Defense isn't just about skill. It's about size, strength, and tenacity. The Blackhawks' blue line brings all of that.

• Alex Vlasic: 6-foot-6, 217 pounds

• Louis Crevier: 6-foot-8, 228 pounds

• Ethan Del Mastro: 6-foot-4, 210 pounds

• Sam Rinzel: 6-foot-4, 177 pounds

• Artyom Levshunov: 6-foot-2, 208 pounds

• Taige Harding: 6-foot-6, 235 pounds

• Connor Murphy: 6-foot-4, 212 pounds

This group has the frame and reach to protect the net, win board battles, capitalize on turnovers, and wear down opponents. With many of these players 24 or younger, this core is built for the long haul.

3. The Forward Group Needs Help

Defense doesn't just win championships. It's the forward group that plays a factor too.

After Connor Bedard's 61-point Calder Trophy winning season, it's become clear that he needs help offensively. Ryan Donato, who is having a great season with Chicago, is set to hit the free agent market.

Pat Maroon, who announced his retirement on March 22, played his final NHL game in the Blackhawks' 5-4 shootout loss to the Winnipeg Jets on April 12. Phillip Kurashev could be a potential trade candidate, and Ilya Mikheyev's contract is set to expire after the 2025-26 season, leaving more questions about the team's offensive depth moving forward.

What would be the solution? To draft an elite forward. Whether it's Michael Misa, James Hagens, or another top-tier offensive prospect, the Blackhawks should focus on surrounding Bedard the pieces he need to lead the franchise.

Given the Blackhawks' deep pool of young defensemen and their need for more offensive firepower, the goal is to find another dynamic forward. Drafting another defenseman would be unnecessary and won't make them any better going forward.

The key will be balancing their forward and defense group. Surrounding Bedard with top-line talent while still developing their defense core will propel the Blackhawks to a playoff spot in the near future.