3 Crazy Trade Proposals for 2023 #1 Pick Connor Bedard

The Chicago Blackhawks proved tanking works as they have won the 2023 NHL Draft Lottery and the right to select generational talent Connor Bedard. While at this point it doesn't appear Bedard will pull an Eric Lindros and demand a trade, let's have some fun and say he does and examine a few crazy trade proposals the Blackhawks could receive before June's draft:

Blackhawks trade #1 pick to the Arizona Coyotes for the 6th overall, 12th overall, 2024 unprotected first-round pick, forward Barrett Hayton and defenseman Victor Soderstrom

This deal gives the Blackhawks three first-rounders and likely three picks in the top-12, a 22-year-old center to build around and a young defenseman with top-4 potential. Five for one enough here? Likely not, which is why Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson won't be accepting this proposal anytime soon.

Blackhawks trade #1 pick to Columbus Blue Jackets for the #3 pick, a 2023 first-round pick (LA), 2024 unprotected first-round pick, forward Kent Johnson and Cole Sillinger

This move would give the Blue Jackets a franchise player to slot in with Johnny Gaudreau and Patrik Laine, meanwhile the Blackhawks would land a can't miss prospect at #3, two other first round picks and two stud forwards who are still very young and are full of top-six potential. While Bedard won't be going anywhere but the Blackhawks, this trade proposal isn't all that bad.

Blackhawks traded #1 pick to Montreal Canadiens for #5 overall pick, 2023 first-round pick (FLA), 2024 unprotected first-round pick, forward Juraj Slafkovsky, and Owen Beck

A loaded offer for sure, feels like the Blackhawks would ponder this one for a second or two. A top-five pick, a former first-overall pick and three other pieces, this deal reminds me a bit of the haul that the Quebec Nordiques got for Lindros - Peter Forsberg, Ron Hextall, Mike Ricci and several others, along with a wad of cash. Times have changed, and don't expect to see the first overall pick moved ahead of hearing 'proud to select, from the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League, Connor Bedard'. 

Photo credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports