The Chicago Blackhawks are facing a significant challenge as they navigate the next few weeks without their top two offensive players, Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, who are both sidelined with injuries. Bedard is out with a shoulder injury until at least January, while Nazar is expected to miss at least four weeks with a facial injury sustained in a 6-4 loss to the Ottawa Senators. This presents an opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void. Here are four Blackhawks who could benefit from elevated roles in the absence of Bedard and Nazar:

• Ryan Greene: Greene has already demonstrated his potential to thrive in a more prominent role. In the game against the Ottawa Senators following Nazar's injury, Greene contributed two assists, marking his first multi-point game in the NHL. His playmaking ability and vision in the offensive zone make him a strong candidate to play with top-line talent, potentially alongside players like Tyler Bertuzzi and Andre Burakovsky.

• Nick Lardis: Lardis is a pure shooter with a knack for finding scoring areas on the ice. He recently scored his first NHL goal. To maximize his offensive capabilities, Lardis needs to be paired with linemates who can consistently get him the puck in scoring positions.

• Oliver Moore: Moore is another young player who could seize this opportunity to solidify his position as an NHL player. He has the skill set to contribute offensively and could benefit from increased ice time and responsibility.

• Nick Foligno: Foligno's return from injury will provide a significant boost to the Blackhawks. As a veteran center, he brings responsible two-way hockey and can be relied upon to win crucial faceoffs. His leadership and experience will be invaluable in guiding the team through this challenging period.

The Blackhawks' coaching staff will need to make strategic lineup adjustments to compensate for the absence of Bedard and Nazar. This includes finding the right linemates for players like Greene and Lardis to maximize their offensive potential. The team will also rely on veteran players to provide leadership and stability.

The injuries to Bedard and Nazar come at a particularly difficult time for the Blackhawks, who have struggled to generate consistent offense and have lost eight of their last ten games. However, this adversity also presents an opportunity for other players to step up, showcase their abilities, and potentially carve out larger roles for themselves within the team. The next few weeks will be a test of the Blackhawks' depth and resilience as they navigate the season without their two young stars.