Connor Bedard gets 100% real about future despite another struggling season for Blackhawks
Connor Bedard Stays Optimistic Despite Chicago Blackhawks’ Playoff Struggles
The Chicago Blackhawks have faced another disappointing season, missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the fifth consecutive year. However, despite the ongoing struggles, 19-year-old sensation Connor Bedard remains hopeful about the team’s future.
Bedard’s Encouraging Outlook on the Blackhawks’ Future
Following Chicago’s 3-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, which officially eliminated them from playoff contention, Bedard expressed optimism about the direction the team is heading.
> “You’re seeing guys come up and make a difference,” he stated, as reported by NHL.com. “I know what I’m trying to do right now is not be so focused on results and just know we’re young, we’re trying to get better, and just have fun.”
Bedard acknowledged that the Blackhawks’ roster is filled with young and talented players, and while their immediate success has been limited, the team is building towards something bigger. With a few weeks left in the regular season, his focus is on playing their best hockey and enjoying the game.
> “Obviously, you’re trying to win every game, and you want to win, but we’re going to try to play the best we can,” he added.
Bedard’s Performance and Room for Improvement
Despite the Blackhawks’ struggles, Bedard has been the team’s leading scorer, recording 54 points (19 goals, 35 assists) in 69 games. Following his Calder Trophy-winning rookie season, Bedard admitted his sophomore campaign has had its ups and downs.
> “Up to this point, I feel I’ve had a couple of little, like, 12-15 game stretches where if you look at points … obviously, points aren’t everything, but as a guy who’s supposed to produce, those stretches are what I need to get rid of.”
While recognizing areas for improvement, Bedard remains positive, viewing his growth opportunities as a chance to elevate his game further.
Bedard’s Relationship with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson
Beyond his on-ice development, Bedard has built a strong relationship with Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson. He appreciates Davidson’s open communication and honesty, describing him as an approachable leader.
> “Yeah, we have a good relationship,” Bedard said. “It’s cool. He’s a younger GM (36), and we’re a younger team. We have a lot of guys coming in basically the same time as him… I think we’re all trying to grow together and take those next steps, and having that relationship is important.”
The Road Ahead for the Blackhawks
When asked about what the Blackhawks need to do to make significant progress in their rebuild, Bedard emphasized the importance of individual player development.
As the team looks ahead, Bedard’s confidence in Chicago’s future and his own continued improvement could serve as a crucial foundation for the franchise’s eventual return to playoff contention.
