Connor Bedard Named Blackhawks Captain

Connor Bedard has been named captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, becoming the second-youngest player in franchise history to receive the honor. Bedard is 21 years and 60 days old, with only Jonathan Toews becoming captain at a younger age. Toews was 20 when he was given the captaincy.

Bedard takes over the role from Nick Foligno, who served as the Blackhawks captain before being traded earlier this season. The decision marks an important step in Bedard’s growing role within the team.

The promotion comes after Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million contract in July. The deal further established him as a central figure in the Blackhawks’ rebuilding plans.

General Manager Kyle Davidson praised Bedard’s leadership qualities and his ability to motivate his teammates. The organization believes his growing experience and influence will be important as the team works to improve its results.

Bedard has led the Blackhawks in points in each of his first three NHL seasons. He won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year in 2023-24 after an impressive debut season that included playing through a broken jaw.

During the previous season, Bedard recorded career highs of 30 goals, 45 assists and 75 points in 69 games. He also became one of the youngest players in Blackhawks history to score 30 goals in a season. In addition, he became the 13th player in NHL history to reach 200 career points before turning 21.

The Blackhawks have struggled to return to the top of the NHL in recent years. The team has made the playoffs only once since 2017 and finished last in its division last season. The return of veteran forward Patrick Kane is expected to bring additional experience to the roster as Bedard begins his captaincy.

Bedard said he was grateful for the opportunity and recognized the responsibility that comes with wearing the captain’s letter. He also acknowledged the legacy of former captains such as Toews, who led Chicago to three Stanley Cup championships.

Bedard is currently recovering from a shoulder injury suffered during offseason training. He underwent surgery in July and is expected to return around mid-November. This means he could begin his first season as captain while still completing his recovery.

With Bedard taking on the captaincy, the Blackhawks are placing one of their most important young players at the center of their rebuilding effort.