Story Summary
Connor Bedard has been named captain of the Chicago Blackhawks. The 21-year-old centre becomes the second-youngest captain in team history, behind Jonathan Toews (20 years, 79 days). General manager Kyle Davidson praised Bedard’s leadership; Bedard called the appointment “an unbelievable honor.” He replaces Nick Foligno, who served as captain from Sept. 18, 2024, to March 6, 2026, when Foligno was traded to the Minnesota Wild. Bedard, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and the 2023-24 Calder Trophy winner, signed a five-year, $75 million contract ($15 million average annual value) on July 18 and is recovering from left shoulder surgery sustained after an off-season training injury on July 2. He is expected to be out until November and has been skating and taking some shots during informal sessions.
Key Facts
- Connor Bedard was named captain of the Chicago Blackhawks.
- Bedard is 21 years old and is the second-youngest captain in Blackhawks history behind Jonathan Toews (20 years, 79 days).
- Bedard said: ” Being named captain of the Blackhawks is an unbelievable honor and something I’m truly humbled by.”
- General manager Kyle Davidson said: ” Connor perfectly embodies what it means to be a Blackhawk… he has earned the respect of his teammates and the entire organization… and there is no doubt that he is ready to take on this tremendous responsibility.”
- Bedard replaces Nick Foligno, who was captain from Sept. 18, 2024, to March 6, 2026, when he was traded to the Minnesota Wild.
- Bedard had been named an alternate captain for the remainder of last season on March 3 after defenseman Connor Murphy was traded March 2 to the Edmonton Oilers; he had also been an alternate earlier last season when Foligno was hurt.
- On Nov. 18, Bedard recorded the second hat trick of his career in a 5-2 win against the Calgary Flames.
- Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million contract ($15 million average annual value) on July 18.
- He underwent surgery on his left shoulder after sustaining an injury during an off-season training session in Vancouver on July 2 and is expected to be out until November.
- Bedard led the Blackhawks last season with 60 points (26 goals, 34 assists) in 51 games.
- He won the Calder Trophy in 2023-24 as the League’s best rookie.
- Past Blackhawks captains cited in the club’s history include Jonathan Toews (2008-23), Chris Chelios (1995-99), Denis Savard (1988-89), Stan Mikita (1975-77) and Pierre Pilote (1961-67).
IHM Discussion
The Blackhawks have placed their young No. 1 pick in a prominent leadership role. Naming Connor Bedard captain connects the club’s leading scorer from last season with a long history of decorated leaders, including Jonathan Toews and Hall of Famers Chris Chelios, Denis Savard, Stan Mikita and Pierre Pilote. General manager Kyle Davidson pointed to Bedard’s preparation, competitiveness and conduct, suggesting the club sees his influence extending beyond his on-ice production. Bedard’s remarks also acknowledged the weight of the role and the standard set by those who wore the ‘C’ before him.
Why It Matters
Assigning the ‘C’ to Bedard confirms that Chicago sees him as a central figure in its future. As the team’s leading scorer last season, with 60 points in 51 games, and the 2023-24 Calder Trophy winner, he already carries substantial on-ice expectations. The captaincy adds formal leadership responsibility as Chicago prepares for training camp and seeks to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2019-20. Bedard’s shoulder recovery means that leadership role will initially be felt away from game action as well as on the ice.
Mini Q&A
Who was named captain of the Chicago Blackhawks?
Connor Bedard was named captain of the Chicago Blackhawks.
How old is Bedard and how does that rank in team history?
Bedard is 21 years old and is the second-youngest captain in Blackhawks history behind Jonathan Toews (20 years, 79 days).
Who did Bedard replace as captain?
He replaces Nick Foligno, who was captain from Sept. 18, 2024, to March 6, 2026, when he was traded to the Minnesota Wild.
What has Bedard said about being named captain?
Bedard said: ” Being named captain of the Blackhawks is an unbelievable honor and something I’m truly humbled by.”
What is Bedard’s injury status and expected timeline?
Bedard underwent surgery on his left shoulder after sustaining an injury during an off-season training session on July 2 and is expected to be out until November; he has been skating and taking some shots during informal sessions at the Blackhawks’ practice facility.
What are Bedard’s recent contract and recent season statistics?
Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million contract ($15 million average annual value) on July 18 and led the Blackhawks last season with 60 points (26 goals, 34 assists) in 51 games.
Coach Mark Comment
From a coaching perspective, a young captain needs support from the leadership group as well as the coaching staff. Bedard can set standards through his preparation and competitiveness, while experienced teammates help carry the daily demands of the room. During his shoulder recovery, his presence in meetings and around the team can help establish that leadership before he returns to the lineup.
What Comes Next
Chicago opens training camp on Thursday, while Bedard is expected to remain out until November as he recovers from left shoulder surgery. His return to the lineup will be the next major development for the Blackhawks’ new captain.
IHM Final View
Naming Connor Bedard captain is a clear statement of faith from the Blackhawks. It links the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft to the franchise’s leadership history and gives the club a clear figurehead as he completes his recovery. The appointment also sets a standard for the younger players around him, with Bedard’s eventual return to the lineup the next significant step.