OFFICIAL: Connor Bedard Named Captain of Chicago Blackhawks

Bedard was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. Since then, he has quickly become the face of the franchise, replacing names like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. Although Kane has returned, Tuesday’s news signifies that his is Bedard’s team moving forward.

In three NHL seasons, Bedard has posted 203 points (75 goals, 128 assists) in 219 games. What is perhaps most impressive is not only his scoring total, but the context behind it. With minimal help, Bedard posted incredible numbers as a teenager. He is only now entering his age-21 season.

At age 21, Bedard becomes the second-youngest captain in franchise history behind only Jonathan Toews. In comparison to one of the franchise’s greatest leaders, the faith the organization has in Bedard is unmatched. Now, the organization is looking to push forward into another stratosphere with the young corps Kyle Davidson has assembled.

Tuesday marks the unofficial start to the NHL season. The Blackhawks’ first game is on Sept. 29 in Las Vegas against the Vegas Golden Knights. The game will be one of three on ESPN to open the 2026-27 NHL season.