Connor Bedard remained calm as he took the ice at the World Junior championships wearing a Team Canada jersey, carrying the weight of a nation’s hockey expectations. He stayed composed as NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly revealed NHL team logos at the draft lottery, his fate hidden beneath the placards. Even facing his idol, Sidney Crosby, in a Chicago Blackhawks jersey didn’t faze him.
Hockey is his comfort zone. Connor Bedard understands hockey.
But entering Nick Foligno’s house in Chicago for dinner one September evening, he felt nervous. Trying to make conversation with Nick and Janelle, the new guy was a bit anxious.
“It wasn’t intimidating,” Bedard said of his initial interactions with adults. “I was nervous about fitting in and finding my place.”
Foligno recalled how Bedard quickly turned to hockey talks, eager to watch sports on TV. The presence of Foligno’s kids, challenging Bedard to a mini-sticks game, eased the tension.
At just 18 years old, Bedard is navigating the NHL with poise and skill, despite the immense hype surrounding him.
His teammates in Chicago treat him as one of their own, offering support and friendship. Bedard’s dedication to the game shines through in his relentless practice sessions and commitment to improvement.
In his rookie season, Bedard has lived up to the expectations, impressing his GM, Kyle Davidson, with his maturity and focus on the ice.
Connor Bedard has lived up to his considerable hype. (Patrick McDermott / Getty Images)
Bedard’s focused approach and willingness to engage with fans and media have made him a standout in the league. His on-ice performance speaks for itself, leading the Blackhawks in goals, assists, and points among rookies.
Despite the challenges and pressures, Bedard remains determined to excel and contribute to the growth of hockey in Chicago and beyond. His commitment to the game and his team’s success are unwavering.
Connor Bedard has stated his desire to grow hockey in Chicago and beyond. (Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
As Bedard continues to evolve and hone his skills, the future looks bright for this young hockey prodigy. With a strong support system and a relentless drive for excellence, Bedard is poised for even greater success in the seasons to come.
At 18, Connor Bedard is already the Blackhawks’ best player, and he has room to grow. (Harry How / Getty Images)
As Bedard looks ahead to his second year in the league, he aims to build on his successes and continue to push himself to new heights. With a dedicated work ethic and a passion for the game, the sky’s the limit for this young star.
All the attention and scrutiny surrounding Bedard are a reflection of his exceptional talent on the ice. His ability to handle the pressure and perform at a high level speaks volumes about his character and determination.
As he navigates the challenges of his rookie season, Bedard remains focused on his craft and committed to elevating his game and contributing to his team’s success. With a relentless pursuit of greatness, Bedard is set to leave a lasting impact on the sport of hockey.
Illustration: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic. Photos: Jeff Haynes / Getty; Jamie Sabau, Scott Olson / NBAE