Connor Bedard is on fire! The Chicago Blackhawks' young star has taken a 'massive step forward' this season, according to General Manager Kyle Davidson, and the numbers back it up. But what exactly has changed, and what does this mean for his future? Let's dive in.
Davidson, speaking from the NHL Board of Governors meeting, emphasized the importance of patience in evaluating young players. He pointed out the tendency to rush to judgment, especially with a talent like Bedard, who entered the league with immense hype.
Bedard, now in his third season, is showing remarkable improvement. He's on pace to score 50 goals, significantly more than the combined total of his first two seasons. His point total is projected to reach 113, a substantial leap from his teenage years. Even more impressive is his plus-minus rating: he's currently at plus-6, a stark contrast to the minus-80 he accumulated in his first 150 games. This season, he has 18 goals in 29 games.
Currently, Bedard ranks fourth in the NHL in scoring and is tied for third in goals. The Blackhawks, with a record above .500, are also seeing the benefits of his growth. They've improved their points percentage considerably compared to Bedard's first two seasons.
Davidson credits Bedard's development to several factors, including the player's dedication to self-improvement. Bedard chose to focus on refining his skills, particularly his skating, instead of playing for Canada in the IIHF World Championship. This commitment, according to Davidson, has been a key driver of his progress.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Bedard's leadership qualities are also evolving. He's becoming more comfortable in his role as a star player and a face of the franchise. Davidson attributes this to natural maturation and the changing dynamics of the Blackhawks' roster.
And this is the part most people miss... The team now has a younger core, with several players born in the early 2000s, creating a more relatable environment for Bedard. This shift has fostered greater comfort and leadership within the team.
This incredible performance has put Bedard in contention for a spot on Team Canada at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. While not a guarantee, his achievements this season have undoubtedly made him a strong candidate. The deadline for submitting Olympic rosters is December 31st. Davidson believes that playing in the Olympics would be a fantastic opportunity for Bedard, boosting his confidence and further enhancing his skills.
What do you think? Do you agree with Davidson's assessment of Bedard's progress? Do you think he'll make the Olympic team? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
