Connor Bedard is beginning his second season with the Chicago Blackhawks. As the first overall pick, he naturally attracts significant attention, but this season feels particularly notable.
In the Blackhawks’ final preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on October 5, Bedard displayed a physical style of play, even engaging in a confrontation with Zachary Bolduc. After the game, coach Luke Richardson commented on Bedard’s approach to physicality.
“I think Connor should avoid those situations if possible, but I appreciate his mindset,” Richardson said. “He’s demonstrating that he won’t let anyone push him around and that he intends to establish his presence on the ice.”
Bedard brought that same intensity to the Blackhawks’ season opener in Utah. During 21:14 on the ice, he registered five shots on goal, delivered a hit, and made significant plays for his teammates, particularly in the game’s final moments.
“Similar to the team, I thought he really found his stride towards the end of the third,” Richardson noted after the loss on Tuesday. “He was active on the forecheck, retrieved pucks, maintained possession, and made impressive plays.”
Bedard is integral to the Blackhawks’ offense. In the opening night defeat, he notched two assists and nearly scored with an attempt at The Michigan.
Entering his second season with greater confidence, Bedard is a key factor in our prediction at CHN that he will achieve 100 points this year. Having experienced a full NHL season, he can now concentrate solely on his performance. With new linemates, his potential is limitless.
However, one area that needs improvement for Bedard and the Blackhawks is the power play, which went 0 for 3 in the recent game. Following the defeat, Richardson emphasized the need for better puck movement and shots from the point to create opportunities.
Last season, Bedard stepped into the NHL at just 18 and held his own. If he can elevate his game this season, the Chicago Blackhawks are likely to become an exciting team to watch.
