Connor Bedard stays strong despite concerns in Chicago

It should come as no surprise that Chicago Blackhawks star forward Connor Bedard, who led all rookies with 10 assists and 15 points in 15 games (5-10—15), has been named the NHL’s “Rookie of the Month” for December.

Of course! - well, maybe not for some who worried that Bedard’s development would suffer with Taylor Hall and other Hawks teammates were injured earlier in the season.

However, Bedard remains strong, impressive and what appears to be the saviour in Chicago. As Adam Proteau of the Hockey explains it on his latest take on the 18-year-old development in the NHL as its first overall pick in 2023:

“He’s doing all that while playing on a first line with a rotating cast of wingers, mainly greybeard Nick Foligno and youngster Philipp Kurashev but also recent acquisition Anthony Beauvillier and Ryan Donato . All those players would likely not be on the top line for genuine Stanley Cup contenders, but Foligno and Kurashev are benefiting from playing alongside Bedard. “

He then adds: “It remains astonishing that, at age 18, Bedard is a legitimate Grade-A threat. Once he matures and his body develops, there’s going to be no stopping him. The sky’s the limit for Bedard, and it doesn’t matter who he plays alongside – he makes everyone around him better, and that’s the sign of a true superstar.”

Other young players could have deflated in Chicago, where wins are hard to come by and a potential spot in the 2024 playoffs seems far-fetched. However, Bedard has already matured in a play-maker, a leader and a prospect that can see into the team’s future while staying focused on every single game.

Bedard, who also was named “Rookie of the Month” in November, is truly inspiring to watch, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he were to be named the rookie of the month of January once we turn this page of the calendar.

He is the first player to win “Rookie of the Month” honors in consecutive months since St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington in February and March 2019.

How about three?

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