Connor Bedard owns up to rookie season mistakes as he becomes Blackhawks leader

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Graham Montgomery
October 23, 2024 (9:26 PM)

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Chicago Blackhawks franchise star Connor Bedard is doing things differently this season, following up his Calder-winning rookie season with a more professional game.

Just about everyone in the hockey world knew Connor Bedard was going to be a star the moment he entered the league. Unsurprisingly, he won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year after putting up 22 goals and 61 points in 68 games last season. He showed the confidence of a veteran despite being a rookie with moves such as the Michigan, which he successfully pulled off against St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington.

This is a real tool Bedard will continue to use as he attempted the move again in the season opener this year. Despite his huge talent and knack for scoring goals though, he has just 1 this season, and just 2 in his last 21 games going back to last season as head Athletic writer Mark Lazerus points out. However, that is not through a lack of trying as he currently leads the team in individual scoring chances, more than doubling his linemate Nick Foligno in that category.

Speaking of lines, Bedard is centering an all-new line this year, featuring captain Nick Foligno on his left and newcomer Teuvo Teravainen on his left. So far things appear to be working out pretty well as Bedard leads the team with seven points through 7 games. However, the 19-year-old is focused on a lot more than just scoring this season. He admitted that last season he was not playing a full 200-foot game as he attempted to rack up the points, sacrificing on defense to do so. Now he is committed to being an elite player in all three zones.

"I was cheating maybe a little too much last year for offense. It's just a balance. I always want to have the puck, I always want to be in the offensive zone, but half the game's played in your end. Just being responsible."

So far, it seems like more of the same for the Hawks this season as just three teams have fewer points than them. However, they already look a lot more competitive and Bedard is a big part of that. We very well could see the team take a step forward in the standings this year if they can go on a little run, which should come sooner or later considering their best goal scorer still only has one tally. They are certainly an exciting and fun team to watch, so be sure to tune in to the odd Blackhawks game here and there this season.