The Chicago Blackhawks have plenty of options at center, and one of them may be Roman Kantserov.
The Chicago Blackhawks will be without Connor Bedard for roughly the first month of the season. If anything, it is more likely that he returns earlier than expected than later. During that time, the team just has to tread water until he can come back and help.
Part of that process will be filling out the center of the ice until he returns. The Blackhawks have a lot of forwards who can play both center and wing, but are unclear which is the best option. On that list are Frank Nazar, Anton Frondell, Oliver Moore, and Ryan Greene.
Not many people expected Roman Kantserov to be a part of that process, but it sounds like he will be. The Blackhawks are also going to give him some looks at center, despite him coming in with the reputation as a goal-scoring winger from Russia.
As a rookie pro, Kantserov led the KHL in goals last season. That league plays elite hockey, and leading it in goals is incredibly admirable. The Blackhawks hope he can fill in for Bedard at center, potentially on the top line.
Having Patrick Kane as a possible linemate for Kantserov is perfect, whether he plays down the middle or on the wing. Kane has been great in the past at helping young goal scorers find the puck in high-danger areas. Think back to guys like Artemi Panarin and Alex DeBrincat. Kane is older now, but he is still incredibly smart.
If Kantserov is able to play center for the Blackhawks at different points, they will find it much easier to get through Bedard's injury. That is especially true if it doesn't hinder his ability to find the back of the net.
When Connor Bedard returns, if Frondell and Nazar look comfortable at center, Kantserov will likely stay on the top line, but as a winger. Is the endgame for Kantserov to play center? Likely not, but they will see during training camp and the preseason if that is possible.
Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay up to date on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.
For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive, and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting on the article below on THN.com or by creating your own post in our community forum.
