The Chicago Blackhawks are on the verge of becoming a competitive team, thanks to their young core and strategic trades. With Seth Jones now off the books and Connor Bedard leading the charge, the Blackhawks have a promising foundation for success. Bedard, a 19-year-old phenom, is facing the challenges of losing, but his potential to rise is undeniable. As the team prepares for the future, they have the chance to sign key free agents and build around their promising draft picks.

Chicago's trajectory can be accelerated by a rising salary cap allowing for impactful signings and by effectively developing their young talents, particularly on defense with players like Artyom Levshunov showing significant promise. The potential addition of Matthew Schaefer in the upcoming draft could solidify their blue line and create a formidable pairing with Levshunov, setting a strong foundation for the future. With key components in place and more on the way, the Blackhawks' window to contend is coming soon.