Few names in modern hockey history have aroused as much interest and anticipation as Connor Bedard has.
Connor Bedard’s impressive accomplishments, numbers, and draft position have solidified his reputation as a talent to watch. But an intriguing query emerges: Should he take over as the Chicago Blackhawks’ captain?
The trip taken by Connor Bedard has been nothing short of incredible. He became a standout junior hockey player after winning the CHL Player of the Year, Top Draft Prospect, and Top Scorer accolades.
Bedard, the Regina Pats’ captain, had an outstanding season that included an incredible 71 goals and 72 assists in just 57 games.
Fans and commentators are intently observing Bedard’s every move as excitement for his rookie season grows in order to predict how his skills will transition to the NHL level.
Despite his remarkable background, Bedard is faced with the fact that he has yet to prove himself in the NHL, having never registered a point or won a team-focused award at the professional level. In addition, he doesn’t yet have adequate experience leading the Chicago Blackhawks despite being the captain of the Regina Pats.
Jonathan Toews has served as the Blackhawks’ captain since his second season in 2008, so when the organization announced earlier this year that he wouldn’t be joining them again, it was the end of an era.
Possibilities surrounding the captaincy dilemma for the Blackhawks
There are various alternative routes the Blackhawks could take as they negotiate this junction. One conceivable outcome is that the club decides not to name a captain at all for the 2023–2024 campaign. Alternately, veterans with experience and leadership qualities like Corey Perry or Taylor Hall might temporarily fill the position and provide direction for the team.
According to Kyle Graden of Blackhawkup.com, it is more likely that Connor Murphy, who is now wearing an “A” (alternative captain), will continue to take the lead. He might act as the team’s mentor and leader, offering advice and support.
The path for Bedard’s eventual promotion to captain, though, is obvious. Bedard’s journey is likely to take a similar course to that of Jonathan Toews, who was named captain following the completion of a season. The youngster will have to wait, though.