Connor Bedard sends stern warning across the NHL with latest statements in the midst of trade rumors
Photo credit: NHL
Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard, the 2023 first overall pick hailed as a generational talent, is targeting speed as a key area for improvement in the 2025 NHL off-season after a strong 67-point sophomore season.
Drawing early-on comparisons to stars like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, Bedard acknowledges the high expectations to transform the Blackhawks but knows individual growth alone isn't enough.
He capped his season with a standout performance against Ottawa, scoring twice and assisting the game-winner, yet the team aims for more significant spring hockey.
Bedard looks to NHL speedsters like McDavid and MacKinnon for inspiration, admitting his skating is «average» but believing a faster stride could improve his elite puck-handling, hockey IQ, and lethal shooting, which is already quite fast:
«I don't think I'm slow but probably kind of average speed,» Bedard said about his game, per Charlie Roumeliotis on X. «I'm not ever going to be MacKinnon or McDavid or anyone like that, but if I can gain another step, it puts guys on their heels a little more and with the way I think the game, that could be a huge plus for me and help me create more.»
A faster and more mature Connor Bedard heading into next season? We could witness a side we have yet to see, and it could ultimately break the NHL witnessing player with such a heavy shot alongside elite skating.
Off the ice, the 19-year remains committed to Chicago, expressing no urgency to leave despite his upcoming contract extension.
«I love it here,»
For the Blackhawks to contend, roster upgrades this off-season are crucial to support their young star's development, including a coaching change incoming.
Previously on HawksInsider
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 19 | 436 ANSWERS Connor Bedard sends stern warning across the NHL with latest statements in the midst of trade rumors Will Bedsy break the 100 point mark in the next NHL season? | ||
| Yes | 215 | 49.3 % |
| No | 221 | 50.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
