Connor Bedard: A Summer of Growth and Anticipation
CHICAGO — As the NHL season approaches, all eyes are on Connor Bedard, the young phenom who has quickly become a household name in hockey. After a whirlwind rookie season, Bedard is back in the spotlight, but he’s also relishing the quiet moments he had during the offseason. “I think just way less stuff, like I didn’t do an interview for a couple of months, which was unbelievable,” he shared, reflecting on the break from media obligations.
Focus on Speed
During his time away from the rink, Bedard didn’t just kick back and relax. He dedicated himself to improving his game, with a particular emphasis on speed. Training back home in Vancouver, he sought to replicate the pace and intensity of NHL play. “I feel good,” Bedard said, noting that he has noticed an increase in his speed compared to last season. “The pace of the skates has been good. I’m feeling pretty good.”
Bedard’s commitment to growth is evident. He recognizes that there’s always room for improvement and is eager to take his game to the next level. “Going into the summer, it was fun to kind of have a feeling of what I needed to do to be a better player in the league,” he explained. While he has specific goals in mind, he’s keeping them close to his chest, stating, “Yeah, I’d never tell you, but I have stuff in my head, for sure.”
Insights from Management
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson echoed Bedard’s sentiments about growth, emphasizing the importance of developing a well-rounded game. “I think it’s just growing that 200-foot game,” Davidson said, adding that he’s excited to see Bedard with new linemates and how he can impact both sides of the puck. The anticipation surrounding Bedard’s potential to deliver memorable moments on the ice is palpable.
Injury Updates and Roster Changes
As the team gears up for the season, Davidson also provided updates on injuries affecting players like Artyom Levshunov and Laurent Brossoit. Levshunov is expected to return in about four weeks after sustaining a foot injury during training, while Brossoit’s timeline is similar but may be slightly shorter. These updates are crucial as the Blackhawks prepare for a competitive season.
Number Changes and Team Dynamics
In a lighter moment, the topic of jersey numbers came up, particularly regarding Lukas Reichel’s decision to change from No. 27 to No. 73 in honor of Jeremy Roenick’s Hall of Fame induction. Reichel, who admitted he didn’t have a strong attachment to No. 27, embraced the change, stating, “I think 73 looks cool.” This number change also affected teammate Jalen Luypen, who had to adjust to a new number as a result.
Competition for Roster Spots
The Blackhawks’ roster is shaping up to be crowded, especially with the recent additions of players like Ilya Mikheyev, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Teuvo Teräväinen, alongside returning stars like Taylor Hall and Andreas Athanasiou. Davidson made it clear that there are no guarantees for playing time, stating, “It’s open competition.” This competitive environment is designed to push players to earn their spots and contribute to the team’s success.
Returning to Familiar Ground
Teuvo Teräväinen’s return to Chicago has been met with mixed feelings. While he’s excited to be back in a city he knows well, he’s not looking forward to the harsh winters. “Carolina was nicer for that,” he quipped, highlighting the differences between his previous stint with the Blackhawks and his time in warmer climates.
Young Talent and Development
Kevin Korchinski, the youngest defenseman in the league last year, has also been working hard during the offseason. He focused on building strength without sacrificing speed, adding “6 or 7 pounds” to his frame. Korchinski is aware of the challenges he faced last season, particularly in physical battles, and is eager to test his improvements in real-game situations.
Head coach Luke Richardson is keen on Korchinski’s development, encouraging him to be more assertive at the blue line. The coaching staff has been using video analysis to help Korchinski learn from the best, including comparisons to Duncan Keith. Richardson’s goal is to help Korchinski trust his instincts and skills more, allowing him to be a more impactful player on both ends of the ice.
A Season of Anticipation
As the Blackhawks prepare for the upcoming season, the excitement surrounding Connor Bedard and his teammates is palpable. With a focus on growth, competition, and the potential for memorable moments, fans are eager to see how this young team will perform. The blend of new faces and returning talent sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead, and Bedard’s journey will undoubtedly be one of the highlights.