SITREP: Teuvo and Burakovsky

I know, I know. I said I wasn't going to do these this week. But I can't help myself. There's some changes to the Blackhawks' lineup, and I want to talk about them.

And remember... SITREP stands for Situation Report.

Morning Skate

It appears I'll be getting what I wanted, and that's Teuvo Teravainen playing with Connor Bedard on the first line. Unfortunately, before Teuvo was hurt, he didn't look all that good.

The Blackhawks have had a 47.12% Corsi and a 39.07% expected goals share at 5v5 when Teuvo is on the ice. Not great, but there isn't a Hawk above 50% in expected goals share. Teuvo is a pass-first winger who has heavily leaned pass-first this season. In fact, he's bottom five on this roster in shots per 60 at 5v5. But, Connor Bedard NEEDS someone to get him the puck. And I think Teuvo is that guy.

Curiously, Frank Nazar is also on Bedard's wing. We'll see if that stays for Tuesday night's game, but I'm for it. For now. I'd prefer Nazar to be the 2C, but we need to get Bedard going. My only concern is what if Nazar isn't the Hawks 2C of the future? That's what Kyle Davidson was betting on when he signed that extension of his (with not a full season under Nazar's belt).

Andre Burakovsky seems to have been bumped down to the third line. After his recent performance (or lack thereof), this is a welcome change. Burakovsky had a negative impact on three goals in yesterday's game. He's overstayed his welcome on Bedard's line.

Of course, with the return of Teuvo, it seems that someone is going to be sent down to Rockford. And from reading the tea leaves, that someone might be Nick Lardis. There might be an announcement later today (which I'll have thoughts on tomorrow), but I'm not for Lardis getting a demotion. Send Lafferty. But I'll hold my thoughts until an actual move is made.

No NHL news today. Didn't plan on typing this thing up, and I want to get it sent out. I'll be back tomorrow.