If you look at the standings from this year, they improved the team directly in front of them. Below them New Jersey will have Hugheseses full season plus the 2nd (or whatever they get for him) along with Hischier, Bratt and friends expecting to improve as early 20 year olds. They should leap frog a team like the Hawks-Debrincat.
Flyers will have Couturier likely back, probably Ellis, maybe a certain high priced UFA. Giroux is gone, but still likely expecting to be better then they were especially if Farabee and friends progress.
Canadiens get the 1st overall, Dadonov, and pressure by the team to compete so likely will be looking at UFAs or trades to improve now and who knows what happens with Price.
So Chicago is likely banking on "fighting" with the likes of the Yotes and Kraken for those bottom spots. Of course any team can surprise (good or bad) but I think the Hawks are happy to gamble for Bedard.
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