Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Connor Bedard: Center – Chicago Blackhawks

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Oct 29, 2023 6:10 PM ET

Canadian junior ice hockey sensation Connor Bedard, born on July 17, 2005, has garnered immense acclaim for his exceptional skills. Now a member of the Chicago Blackhawks, his remarkable abilities include precise shooting, adept puck handling, and electrifying rushes on the ice. He’s projected to be generational star and the new face of the Blackhawks’ franchise.

Notably, he was the first WHL player of exceptional status, chosen first overall by the Regina Pats in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft. Furthermore, in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, he was the highly-anticipated selection by the Chicago Blackhawks at first overall. His extraordinary talents continue to shine on the professional stage.

Connor Bedard Bio:

Born	July 17, 2005
Drafted:	Chicago Blackhawks First Overall in 2023 NHL Entry Draft
Hometown:	North Vancouver, BC
Position:	Center
Height — Weight:	5.10 — 185 [178 cm/84 kg]
Shoots:	Right
Current Team:	Chicago Blackhawks
Current Cap Hit:	$950K

Bedard’s Style of Play

Bedard’s gameplay is marked by profound deception, as he conceals his intentions, attacks defenders from various angles, and executes plays at an astonishing speed, leaving spectators and opponents in awe.

Bedard’s trademark move, the curl-and-drag shot, involves a unique technique of pulling the puck in, elevating his top arm, and channeling his entire body’s force into the shot. There may be few players as skilled at this move as Bedard and his shot is pegged to be one of his best weapons.

Connor Bedard Career Statistics

Connor Bedard Awards and Achievements

WHL
CSSHL U15 Most Valuable Player	2019
CSSHL U18 Most Valuable Player	2020
WHL Exceptional Player Status	2020
Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy	2021
Bob Clarke Trophy	2023
Four Broncos Memorial Trophy	2023
CHL
CHL Top Scorer Award	2023
CHL Top Draft Prospect Award	2023
CHL Player of the Year	2023
First All-Star Team	2023
NHL
E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence	2023
International
World U18 Championship Media All-Star Team	2021
World Junior Championship Best Forward	2023
World Junior Championship Media All-Star Team	2023
World Junior Championship MVP	2023
IIHF Male Player of the Year	2023