Blackhawks Player Grades: Connor Bedard

Bedard tallied 61 points in his rookie year, leading to a Calder Trophy win. In his second season, Bedard improved on those numbers. Not only did Bedard play all 82 games, but he tallied 67 points (23 goals, 44 assists) and for the second straight season led the team in points. 

Bedard's season was far from drama free. Before the season, rumors and reports indicated that Bedard wanted out of Chicago, and that he would not sign another contract. The narrative spiraled, and felt like a distraction at times to the fanbase. Despite the reports, Bedard himself shared his love for Chicago and desire to be in the Windy City for a long time. In addition, Bedard saw his on-ice penalty minutes skyrocket from 28 as a rookie to 70 in his sophomore season. 

A bit of a slow start was dismissed by a hot stretch for Bedard. From roughly American Thanksgiving into the new year, the Blackhawks' star was tallying points on a nightly basis. Then, after another scoreless stretch in March, Bedard turned on the jets toward the end of the season, tallying 13 points (four goals, nine assists) in the final 12 games, including a two-goal, three-point performance against the Ottawa Senators to close out the season. 

Player Grades

Steve Kwiatkowski's Grade: B-

I had to change my grade from an A- to a B-. Look, Bedard is an incredible player. But Bedard was brought on to score goals. Yes, he's 19. Yes, he's an incredible playmaker and had to work with a roster made out of pylons. But, Bedard's expectations were higher this season. 23 goals in 82 games isn't what I expected from Bedard. That said, what's keeping him above a C, for me, is the roster that he had to play with and the coaching decisions that didn't do him any favors. I have no doubt Bedard will have an incredible season next year, and if a B- season is considered harsh, so be it.

Tony Marchese's Grade: B+

My grade for Bedard will likely come in a tad lower than my co-hosts for Bedard's sophomore season. Although, I don't believe there is anything wrong with giving Bedard a B+ for this season. There was a lot to like from the Blackhawks 19-year-old centerpiece of the rebuild this year. First and foremost, he had perfect attendance. After missing time in his rookie year due to injury, Bedard was able to remain healthy and in the lineup for all contests this season. While maybe not at the forefront of everyone's mind when it comes to player grades, personally I believe that is a nice checkmark next to his name this early on in his career. 

While Bedard went through periods of what some may call a sophomore slump, there were still very much signs of growth for the youngster in his second full year in the NHL. There is undoubtedly still room to grow, and that is mainly the reason behind the B+. His future is beyond bright and giving him an A this season likely won't due justice for what is coming later on in his career.

Ron Luce's Grade: A-

I know everyone wants to get down on Connor Bedard and the fact that, as a goal scorer, he ONLY scored 23 goals this season. However, let's state the complete and honest truth. There are few players in the history of the century-old NHL that have produced 60+ points as a TEENAGER. Is Bedard supposed to be the second coming? Sure. But, as we see around the league now, even the greats like Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid needed a few seasons to get going and find their stride. Bedard took steps forward and will continue to be the offensive staple. Great season, he gets an A-.

What's On Tap Next?

Ideally, Bedard's third season will see a huge jump in scoring and ultimately help the Blackhawks progress further up the standings. There will certainly be growing pains, especially considering the roster around him, but another step forward should silence some of the doubters regarding Bedard's superstar potential. 

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Connor Bedard? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!