Three players who should be heavily critiqued rather than Connor Bedard

Connor Bedard is the face of the Blackhawks, and naturally, he takes the most heat when things go wrong. But he can't do it all himself. If Chicago wants to improve, other players need to step up. Three in particular-Philipp Kurashev, Lukas Reichel, and Alex Vlasic-haven't done enough.

Philipp Kurashev: Where Did His Production Go?

Kurashev looked like he was breaking out last season with 54 points in 75 games. This year? Just eight points in 38 games. Sure, his ice time is down, but that doesn't explain the massive drop-off. A middle-six forward is supposed to contribute, and right now, Kurashev is invisible.

Lukas Reichel: A Former First-Round Pick Falling Short

Reichel was expected to be a key piece of the rebuild, but he hasn't lived up to it. His ice time has dropped, and while he's matched last season's 16 points, he's struggled with long pointless droughts. At this rate, he looks more like a bottom-six forward than a future star.

Hopefully Lukas Reichel can find his game, or he may find himself in the AHL or with a new organization shortly.
Alex Vlasic: Defensive Issues Piling Up

Vlasic finally ended his scoring drought with a couple of recent points, but his struggles go beyond offense. He's been on the ice for 57 goals against in 55 games-already nearly matching last year's total in 21 fewer games. His defensive play needs serious improvement.

Chicago Needs More Help

Bedard is doing his part, but the supporting cast isn't. Kurashev, Reichel, and Vlasic were expected to take steps forward, yet all three have been disappointing. If the Blackhawks want to turn a corner, it starts with players like them pulling their weight.