Bowen Byram's first crack at PP1 could change everything for the Blackhawks

Bowen Byram has spent too much time watching other defensemen quarterback the power play. But now it's his turn to run things in Chicago. For Byram, this isn't just a new role. It is an opportunity he has been waiting years for. Behind Cale Makar in Colorado. And Rasmus Dahlin in Buffalo- now it's his chance to prove himself.

For Chicago, their power play has been dry for years. They haven't had a true number one PP quarterback. However, Byram looks to be the guy that is on the verge of changing things for the better. He has had the unfortunate task of sitting behind some of the best power-play QB's in the league. Although it may just be a blessing in disguise.

Having sat behind some of the league's most elite defensive talents, it seems as if Byram is going to snatch this opportunity with two hands. He has been a credible power-play defenseman during his short NHL career but now has the chance to apply everything he sat back and watched to his own game. And given the talents and units he has watched and learned from, he could be a game-changer for Chicago's special teams.

What Byram brings to the power play

This year Byram will fill a hole that has been in the Blackhawks' lineup for years. He will bring skating, passing, and true leadership to the Blackhawks' power play, something they have been without for a long time. Byram is a deceptive and smart player, which is also something that every power-play QB needs. He can make plays, and he is also a shooting threat. But most importantly, he is dominant and in control when on the puck.

It is likely that Byram will be joined by Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard on his wings, Tyler Bertuzzi at the net front, and Roman Kantserov in the bumper; not a bad set of players to run your first power play with. What Byram brings is a perfect complement to every player in the unit. He won't just be the point man; he will create space and opportunities for everyone. He is sure to make his presence felt.

How his impact could look on the ice

Last season, the Blackhawks operated at only 16.9% on the power play and were ranked 29th in the league. This year, Byram's impact needs to elevate them into the top 20, at least. His role is simply to make a five-man unit function effectively and efficiently. Not to finish the play every time. His elite point-to-point passing ability will make the winger dangerous for one-timers.

His hard shot can make things dangerous in front of the net. And his confidence on the puck will open up areas for opportunity. He needs to be the answer to the problem Chicago has been trying to solve on the power play.

Byram has already proved himself as an elite-level NHL defenseman. But now he needs to prove he has the skill to run his own power play. Chicago didn't just bring him in to better their blue line, but to drive the entire team forward. Byram finally gets the keys to his own unit. And his impact on special teams could drive Chicago to the places they have been hoping for.

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