As the Chicago Blackhawks look to accelerate their rebuild and climb the Central Division standings, the spotlight has turned to bold possibilities for strengthening their roster. With the offseason approaching and speculation swirling, NHL insiders are linking the Blackhawks to high-impact names that could dramatically reshape the team’s future.

Among the most intriguing options is Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, a dynamic playmaker whose contract situation has made him a hot topic of discussion. The idea of pairing Ehlers with rising star Frank Nazar on the second line has generated excitement and debate among fans and analysts alike.

With Ehlers’ speed, skill, and versatility, the Blackhawks could gain a significant offensive boost and newfound flexibility throughout their lineup—potentially turning them into a force to be reckoned with next season.

Photo credit: Inside The Rink

NHL Insider John Buccigross has an interesting proposition to improve the Blackhawks’ second line with Frank Nazar by acquiring Nikolaj Ehlers.

The Chicago Blackhawks need a jolt of production to improve their standings in the Central Division. That would require Kyle Davidson to dedicate a good amount of cap space in order to acquire a top-six forward.

According to John Buccigross, that should be the Winnipeg Jets’ own Nikolaj Ehlers. His 7-year, $42 million contract expires at the end of the season. Ehlers will be a pending UFA up for grabs.

And if the Blackhawks are serious about pushing the rebuild forward, they could make an offer to him in July.

The Blackhawks could seriously elevate the LW2 position and give them flexibility to move Teuvo Teravainen up and down the lineup by adding Ehlers.

In 69 games this season, the Winnipeg Jets forward posted 63 points (24 goals, 39 assists).

Ehlers is a Swiss army knife on offense: he has a great shot, fast wheels, and could match Nazar’s speed, and is capable of making plays. We can see where Buccigross is going here.

Not to mention putting an elite winger to Nazar’s left would increase his offensive numbers, the Blackhawks could find themselves in higher standings in the Central Division next season if Davidson could lure him here.

Ehlers owns a 10-team no-trade clause and could earn up to $7.5 million on his new contract, according to Murat Ates of The Athletic.

If the Jets don’t move forward into the Stanley Cup finals and fail to vanquish the Dallas Stars, could he work diligently to find a new home? Hopefully it’ll be Chicago.