After an exciting 5-2 victory against the Edmonton Oilers last week, Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks spoke with Sportsnet’s Scott Oake about his developing skills and the ease he’s feeling in his second NHL season. Following a record-setting rookie year that netted him the Calder Trophy, Bedard elaborated on various aspects of his game, including his powerful wrist shot, areas where he hopes to improve, and how he navigates media attention.
This season, Bedard feels more at ease.
Perfecting His Impressive Wrist Shot
Bedard’s trademark wrist shot has turned into a formidable asset. In his conversation with Oake, he credited its effectiveness to regular practice and self-assurance. When asked about the key to mastering his shot, he remarked, “That’s a pretty basic answer. The biggest thing is just to put in the work.” His dedication to refining this skill has enhanced both his offensive capabilities and self-confidence. After scoring twice at Rogers Place on Saturday night, it’s evident that his efforts are yielding results.
Despite a standout season last year, Bedard remains dedicated to ongoing enhancement. He stated, “As you get older and every year, you want to have more of an impact on the game.” For him, this means stepping up his offensive play while also focusing on being defensively sound. He stressed the need to be dependable in key moments, highlighting his ambition to contribute in all areas of the game as he develops. He’s simply settling into his role.
A More Relaxed Season Ahead
Reflecting on how his rookie season differs from the present, Bedard noted he feels more relaxed this time around. “I feel a lot more relaxed coming in,” he mentioned, explaining that the media attention during his rookie year made it hard to concentrate on the game. After spending over two months without media engagements this summer, he appreciates the quieter start to the season. He believes this enables him to focus better on his performance and reduce outside distractions.
As the Blackhawks kick off the season, Bedard’s blend of talent and maturity makes him a player to keep an eye on. His ability to balance scoring and defensive duties is vital for the team’s success. With a more relaxed outlook and a commitment to improvement, fans can look forward to watching Bedard grow as a player and significantly influence the Blackhawks’ season this year.
