Luckily the Blackhawks have drafted high character/work ethic type players, so your hope that the kids rally around each other during Bedard’s absence is not at all far-fetched. And I definitely agree with you that the D-corps are going to be much improved than last season. Adding Byram on your top pair has a puck moving threat for the majority of the game, and if Rinzel and/or Levshunov steady their games that will add to your prediction of the Hawks possessing a staunch defensive group.