Connor Bedard entered the NHL in 2023 as the first overall pick, widely regarded as a generational talent. While his early years in the league have come with their share of ups and downs, the Chicago Blackhawks star understands that reaching all-time great status requires constant growth and development. With that in mind, he admitted there’s one specific area he plans to focus on during the offseason—though he acknowledged he won’t become Connor McDavid or Nathan MacKinnon overnight.
Bedard capped off his sophomore season in the NHL, with an astounding performance against the Ottawa Senators, scoring twice and assisting the game-winner. Though a positive note to end the campaign on, Bedard and the Blackhawks are hoping to play much more meaningful hockey during the spring.
In order to take that next step, Chicago must revamp its roster and bring in more talent to support Bedard. While the young star knows he can continue to refine his skills and elevate his game in a league filled with elite talent, he’s also well aware that individual growth alone won’t cut it. Bedard has often drawn comparisons to legends like Sidney Crosby, but there’s one area he openly admits he needs to improve in.
McDavid and MacKinnon are arguably the fastest skaters in the NHL. Even if they don’t clock the top speeds in the league, their spine-tingling velocity can dismantle any defensive structure in the blink of an eye. Bedard knows that speed can’t be taught—but it can be developed—and that’s exactly where his focus lies heading into a challenging offseason.
“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.”
In no rush to leave
While Bedard aims to add another element to his already impressive skill tree, he’s particularly focused on gaining more speed — an upgrade that could create a deadly cocktail in the NHL. Opponents already struggle with his elite puck-handling, hockey knowledge, and wicked ability to get shots off from nearly any position. Add blazing speed to the mix, and stopping him becomes an even more daunting task.
However, his need for speed on the ice doesn’t translate off the ice and when it comes to his upcoming contract extension with the Blackhawks. Bedard has no rush to move to another NHL franchise and has made it clear he envisions his future in Chi-town.
Chi City
“I love it here,” Bedard told Chicago Sun-Times. “ I know I want to be here for a long time. People who know me know I love to be here and really trust the direction we’re going. Hey, if you get the first overall pick, you’re probably not winning the Cup the next two years. It’s an understanding of where you’re at.
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“We’re in a process of growing and learning, and that’s an exciting time. When you lose, it makes winning a lot sweeter once you get there. We’re excited for that.“