The Chicago Blackhawks Are Left in a Pickle When it Comes to Forward Taylor Raddysh

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Sam Walker
July 19, 2023 (11:34 PM)

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Taylor Raddysh is one of the most intriguing players on the Blackhawks roster. At only 25 years old, Raddysh has stepped up in big moments for the Blackhawks this season and has been able to play in any situation Luke Richardson has put him in. While his point total of 24 through 54 games may not jump off the page at the casual viewer, it is actually good enough to rank Raddysh 4th on the team in that category.

Every Blackhawk has struggled mightily offensively this season, with the team leader in points Max Domi only registering 38 through 54 games. Raddysh also ranks 5th in time on ice per game with 16:24, but first among wingers. Raddysh also ranks second on the team in shots on goal percentage with 16.9%.

Raddysh's current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2023-2024 season, which means that he is due for a raise in pay shortly. With his offensive skill and versatility in the lineup, many contenders this season would definelty pay a nice price for his services, but should the Blackhawks shop him?

While it may be tempting to explore a move for Raddysh given how much teams have given up for players via trade up to this point, I don't think it would be smart for the Blackhawks to move yet another skilled, young winger. Any package wouldn't bring a return like Hagel and many of the prospects the Blackhawks drafted after the draft day fire sale are still a few years away from the NHL.

With Patrick Kane's future in Chicago still in question and Jonathan Toews stepping away to focus on his health, Raddysh may be a big piece to the future. Having Raddysh as a focal point of the offense through the rebuild could finally give him the opportunity he needs to truly breakout. Prospects don't always pan out and Raddysh is proving that he can play in this league at a high level. His ceiling higher than people think. Pairing him with a top 3 draft pick this year and some of the young guns from Rockford or other prospects who will make the leap next year could lead to the next core of this team.