This offseason, the Blackhawks signaled their intent to improve by adding several new players to their lineup. The arrivals include Bowen Byram, Cole Smith, Ian Cole, and Jordan Greenway. While these moves strengthen certain areas, a number of observers believe Chicago still needs at least one more top-six winger to round out its forward groups and energize the attack.
One name that has repeatedly surfaced as a strong fit for Chicago is Jared McCann of the Seattle Kraken. A 30-year-old forward with proven 20-goal seasons and consistent point production, McCann would bring high-end offensive capability and a veteran presence to the Blackhawks’ top lines. In this context, a hypothetical deal has circulated among analysts that would see Chicago pursue McCann, potentially delivering substantial returns for Seattle in the form of multiple draft assets tied to future years.
Proposed trade framework
– Chicago Blackhawks receive: Jared McCann
– Seattle Kraken receive:
– 2027 First-Round Pick (originally belonging to the Edmonton Oilers)
– 2028 Second-Round Pick
Rationale for the Blackhawks
McCann would immediately bolster Chicago’s top-six group, supplying a proven scoring punch alongside Bedard. Over the past several seasons, McCann has demonstrated the ability to contribute both goals and playmaking: a 20-goal, 40-point campaign in 52 games in 2025-26 serves as a recent example, while prior seasons have seen him total at least 22 goals and 61 points. His experience would be invaluable for a team still developing its younger core, and his presence could help accelerate the maturation of players such as Frank Nazar and Anton Frödell, providing a reliable veteran anchor on a line with budding talent.
From a strategic perspective, McCann would also be a natural fit for Chicago’s special-teams responsibilities. His offensive instincts and vision should translate well to the Blackhawks’ power play, potentially creating more balanced scoring opportunities and increasing the team’s anticipated ceiling in close games. Additionally, McCann’s leadership and rink awareness would serve as a mentorship asset for younger players trying to acclimate to the NHL’s higher pace and expectations.
Rationale for the Kraken
For Seattle, the potential return of a first-round pick in 2027 and a second-round pick in 2028 reflects the value of a forward entering the final season of his contract while still providing a degree of roster flexibility. In a rebuilding or retooling phase, acquiring draft capital can help the Kraken shape their long-term plans, restock the prospect pipeline, and position themselves for future growth. The trade would offer Seattle a structured path to recoup assets while allowing the team to continue evaluating its current lineup and prospects.
Impact on Chicago’s tactical plans
If Chicago lands McCann, the team could reallocate forwards to optimize line chemistry, balancing the scoring acumen of Bedard with a reliable right-handed shot capable of finishing plays. McCann’s shot selection and decision-making could complement the Blackhawks’ existing players, creating more pressure in the offensive zone and sustaining offensive zone time. Moreover, his experience could help stabilize a younger group during important developmental seasons, reducing the learning curve for rookies stepping into larger roles.
Beyond McCann, Chicago’s broader objective remains clear: to merge veteran know-how with a rising talent pool so that the franchise can contend more consistently in the near term. While the team has added players who bring size, speed, and two-way value, adding a high-impact top-six forward would be a strategic leap toward a more complete and dangerous attack.
What to watch next
– The likelihood and mechanics of a trade for McCann will depend on both teams’ cap flexibility and long-term plans.
– Chicago’s approach to filling other forward or defensive gaps could influence whether a McCann acquisition truly aligns with their 2026-27 objectives.
– How McCann’s fit meshed with Bedard’s development trajectory and the maturation of Chicago’s younger forwards will be critical to evaluating the success of any potential deal.
In summary, adding an experienced, high-impact winger like Jared McCann would represent a meaningful upgrade for the Blackhawks’ top-six and overall offensive structure. If Chicago can structure a deal that satisfies both teams, McCann’s arrival could help accelerate the team’s evolution from a rebuilding phase toward a more competitive and consistent postseason contender.
