# Blackhawks' Speed Strategy Test

> Blackhawks' full-strength lineup tests speed to pressure opponents as Jeff Blashill pushes for puck control.
- Title: Blackhawks' Speed Strategy Test · Chicago Sun-Times | Shortify
- Summary: Blackhawks' full-strength lineup tests speed to pressure opponents as Jeff Blashill pushes for puck control. Blackhawks' new forward lineup with Connor…
- Keywords: blackhawks, jeff blashill, connor bedard, forechecking, puck pressure, nhl, blackhawks forward lineup, speed strategy, news, local, Blackhawks', Speed
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/blackhawks/2026/10/16/blackhawks-forward-lineup-strategy-forechecking-puck-pressure
- Published: 2026-10-16T11:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: blackhawks, jeff blashill, connor bedard, forechecking, puck pressure, nhl, blackhawks forward lineup, speed strategy, news, local
## Blackhawks' New Forward Lineup
Connor Bedard's return to health gives Blackhawks four legitimate NHL-caliber forward lines for the first time in years.
## First Line: Scoring Threats
First line features Connor Bedard, Patrick Kane, and Roman Kantserov with three dangerous scoring threats.
## Second Line: Smart Defense
Second line with Anton Frondell and Tyler Bertuzzi balances offensive and defensive effectiveness.
## Checking Line: Solid Execution
Checking line of Ryan Greene, Jordan Greenway, and Cole Smith performs its role effectively.
## Additional Players
Frank Nazar (back from suspension), Oliver Moore, and Ryan Donato provide the final line with developing chemistry.
## Team Strengths
Blackhawks' speed and work ethic are their primary strengths despite defensive weaknesses.
## Defensive Challenges
Blackhawks lack a clear No. 1 defenseman and have inexperienced defensive corps.
## Forechecking Strategy
Coach Jeff Blashill wants Blackhawks to use speed to pressure opponents through aggressive forechecking.

> If we spend a whole bunch of time defending, all the warts that we have defensively will show up
## Puck Pressure Goal
Blackhawks need to control the puck and minimize defensive weaknesses through aggressive forechecking.

> We want to be a team that is on top of people. We want to use our speed to pressure. We want to be a puck-pursuit team
## Forecheck Mechanics
2-1-2 forecheck involves two forwards pressing opposing defenseman with F3 providing support.
## Execution Issues
Early games showed Hawks were too passive, too aggressive, or a mix of both in forechecking.
## Recent Improvement
Hawks improved forechecking with Teuvo Teravainen's goal after Frondell and Bertuzzi's perfect forecheck.

> They’ve improved as October has gone on, setting a new high water mark Tuesday when Frond: Frondell and Bertuzzi’s perfect forecheck set up Teuvo Teravainen’s opening goal
## Shots Per Game
Blackhawks have attempted fewer shots than opponents in seven of eight games this season.
## Historical Context
Blackhawks have fewer shots than opponents in 61 of 82 games last season and 66 of 82 in Bedard's rookie season.
## Next Steps
Blackhawks must improve offensive-zone time and shot attempts to control puck possession.
## Key takeaway

Blackhawks' new forward lineup with Connor Bedard healthy aims to use speed for puck pressure but must prove offensive-zone effectiveness.