Bedard's Breakout Season: Hawks' Future Bright

0:00On April 28th, Chicago Black Hawks wrapped their 2025-26 season 31st in the league, posting 29 wins 39 losses and 14 overtime losses for 72 points. That's a step up from last year's 25 wins, 46 losses, 11 overtime losses and 61 points. The team sees bright spots in their young talent, especially superstar center Connor Bedard, whose turning heads as their top performer. Bedard lit it up with 30 goals, 45 assists and 75 points in 69 games, leading the squad in most offensive categories. Despite missing 13 games with a shoulder injury, he averaged 20 minutes, 52 seconds of ice time, fired 226 shots and notched five game-winning goals plus 14. Powerplay assists. Fans and analysts love how the 20-year-old leveled up his game-boosting speed from last off season, jumping face-off wins from 38 point. 3% to 47.1% and stepping into leadership with permanent alternate captain status after some bets got traded.

1:07He even showed a gritty side with hits, blocks and takeaways. Still, Bedard's eyeing more growth, like shaking that minus 18 rating, winning more face-offs to elite levels and finding that perfect line-mate, to unlock his full potential. He went goalless in the final 10 games, but dished 8 assists and contract talks for his restricted free agent extension feel like a sure thing. Expect Bedard to snag the captain C before next season, he's already the heart of this rebuild, earning an A-grade and offensive player of. The Hawks are building around him for bigger things ahead. Stay locked in with NHL News today. AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.