Blackhawks Name Connor Bedard As 37th Captain In Franchise History
The Chicago Blackhawks have named Connor Bedard as the 37th captain in franchise history. “Being named captain of the Blackhawks is an unbelievable honor and something I’m truly humbled by,” Bedard said.
The Chicago Blackhawks announced that forward Connor Bedard will be the team’s next captain, becoming the 37th player to hold that title in franchise history.
At 21 years and 60 days old, Bedard becomes the second-youngest captain the franchise has ever had. Only Jonathan Toews, who was named captain at 20 years and 79 days old, took the position at a younger age.
“Being named captain of the Blackhawks is an unbelievable honor and something I’m truly humbled by,” Bedard said. “The captains who have come before me have left an incredible legacy. To now have the opportunity to carry that tradition forward is something I don’t take lightly.”
He added: “I’m grateful to the organization and my teammates for putting their trust in me to lead this team. We’re building something really special here, and I’m committed to making the entire Blackhawks organization and our fans proud.”
Connor Bedard was selected by the Blackhawks with the first overall pick of the 2023 NHL Draft, and is now entering his fourth season with the team.
The North Vancouver, British Columbia native already served as an alternate captain, and set career highs in goals (30), assists (45) and points (75) in 69 games during his 2025-26 campaign.
Additionally, Bedard became only the third Blackhawks player to record a 30-goal season at age 20 or younger, joining Jonathan Toews and Eric Daze.
“Connor perfectly embodies what it means to be a Blackhawk,” said Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson. “From the moment he entered the League, Connor has led by example and set a remarkable standard for himself while demonstrating his ability to make the players around him better.”
“He has earned the respect of his teammates and the entire organization through the way he prepares, competes and conducts himself every single day, and there is no doubt he is ready to take on this tremendous responsibility,” Davidson continued. “We’re proud to have him lead this storied franchise and excited for him to shape the next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.”
The Canadian has racked up 203 career points (75 goals, 128 assists) across 219 NHL games with the Chicago Blackhawks since his debut in 2023. He hit the 200-point mark on April 6 against the San Jose Sharks, making him the youngest player ever to reach that milestone for the Blackhawks and the 13th-youngest in NHL history.
As a rookie during the 2023-24 season, Bedard claimed the Calder Trophy after leading all NHL first-year skaters with 22 goals and 61 points, while sharing first with 39 assists and 68 contests.
Article Written by Jana Van Nieuwenborgh
