The Chicago Blackhawks organization announced Tuesday that 21-year-old Bedard would earn the “C” on his jersey to begin the 2026-27 season.
Drafted in 2023 by Chicago, Bedard has been a force on the ice for the team and the news of captaincy became more realistic after the organization traded previous captain Nick Foligno during the offseason to the Minnesota Wild.
Bedard extended his future in the Windy City this summer by signing a five-year, $75 million contract.
“This is such an honor,” Bedard said at a news conference in Chicago. “One of the biggest honors in my life, and for a storied franchise like this, to be named captain and follow in the footsteps of my captain, Nick Foligno, (Chris Chelios), (Jonathan Toews), you can go down the list,” Bedard added.
Bedard led the Blackhawks in assists (45) and points (75). He was also a lead goal scorer with 30 goals across the season, just behind left winger Tyler Bertuzzi who finished with 32.
Chicago has a history of naming young players as its captain. Back in 2008, it made 20-year-old Jonathan Toews captain, making him the youngest player in NHL history to earn the title. Toews had just one year of experience playing in the league before taking on the leadership role for the organization.
However, Chicago fans will have to wait a little longer before they see their new captain take the ice, as Bedard is expected to be out for close to four months. He received surgery in July to repair his left shoulder following an injury during training in the offseason.
Bedard is expected to take the ice in November to make his debut as captain.
“I’m feeling good,” Bedard said in a news conference. “It’s good to be back on the ice… and just trying to do whatever I can to get back as soon as possible.”
Despite his young age, Bedard will be leading a team of both experienced players and newcomers as Chicago looks to get back in postseason contention.
The Blackhawks last made it to the playoffs during the 2019-2020 season where they were eliminated in the first round of the Western Conference.
The organization expressed their trust in Bedard to lead the team hopefully all the way to the Stanley Cup Championship.
“Connor perfectly embodies what it means to be a Blackhawk,” Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said in a news release. “We’re proud to have him lead this storied franchise and excited for him to shape the next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.”
The Blackhawks also have returning player Patrick Kane back in the lineup. Kane was the No. 1 pick by the Blackhawks in the 2007 NHL draft and won three Stanley Cups with the organization.
Kane spent the entirety of his career in Chicago up until 2023, when he was traded to the New York Rangers. In July, he made the decision to return to his old stomping grounds and signed a two-year deal with the Blackhawks.
“This will be my 20th year in the League, and I’ll probably see passes I’ve never seen before playing with Bedard,” Kane said in a press conference announcing his return to Chicago. “That speaks to how great of a player he is.”
Chicago begins the season on the road, facing off against the Vegas Golden Knights on Sept. 29 at 7:30 p.m.