Chicago Blackhawks
Connor Bedard Has Turned an Important Corner In Third NHL Season
Connor Bedard’s first two NHL seasons were underwhelming, but year three has been an absolute explosion, in more ways than one.
After generating as much hype as any draft prospect since Connor McDavid in 2015, expectations were for Connor Bedard to hit the ground running upon arriving in the NHL as an immediate point-per-game player and face of a franchise. Those are almost impossible heights for any player to reach so early in their career, let alone on a Chicago Blackhawks team with little to no talent around them.
Bedard felt that in his first two years as a pro, producing 61 points (22 goals, 39 assists) in 68 games as a rookie, before taking a step back and tallying 67 points (23 goals, 44 assists) in 82 games in year two.
While those would be tremendous numbers for almost any other player, Bedard was heavily scrutinized thanks to the hype he entered with, and many were quick to write off his superstar potential already.
Unfortunately for those naysayers, year three has been an explosion in all facets of the game, and that was on display throughout Sunday night’s 5-3 win over Anaheim, which Bedard was all over, potting four points (two goals, two assists), including this sweet finish.
The kid made Ville Husso look silly, something he’s done to many goaltenders around the league already this season, looking like the Bedard we were all in awe of during the World Juniors and his time with the Regina Pats of the WHL.
Through 25 games, the 20-year-old is now up to 37 points (16 goals, 21 assists), which is tied for second in league scoring with fellow youngster Macklin Celebrini, and behind only Nathan MacKinnon (44 points).
Connor Bedard is Backing Down From Nobody
The point production and highlight reel plays are Bedard’s bread and butter, but what’s been just as good to see is the fire and intensity he’s brought to the table.
He hasn’t shied away from anything, having gotten into a scrum with Josh Anderson several weeks ago, and on Sunday night, he was in the middle of it all at the end of the game against the Ducks.
It might not seem like much, but what it shows is the increased confidence Bedard has in his game and in himself as a whole, knowing he belongs and is one of the best players in the world.
Nobody thought the Blackhawks would compete for a playoff spot this year, but Bedard has willed them into that mix, and if he can sustain it for a full 82-game season, then we could be looking at a Hart Trophy candidate.
Next: Flyers, Rick Tocchet Have Their Eyes on Canucks’ Centers
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