Connor Bedard, the forward for the Chicago Blackhawks, recently expressed his feelings regarding his slow start to the 2024-25 NHL season, indicating he could identify numerous areas for improvement. Speaking to reporters, he admitted to the frustration he has felt during this stretch, stating, 'I just don't feel like I'm really doing anything. So just keep chipping away at it, I guess, and hopefully find my game again.'
After a promising rookie season in which Bedard led all first-year players with 22 goals over 68 games, he has thus far managed only three goals in the opening 20 games of his sophomore campaign. His last goal came during a game against the Dallas Stars on October 26, leaving him without a goal for eleven consecutive contests. In a recent game against the Florida Panthers, he was notably held without a shot, a rarity in his young career, marking just the sixth occurrence of this in his time in the NHL.
Despite these struggles, Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson recognized Bedard's contributions, particularly on the defensive end, during the team's recent victory. Richardson noted that while Bedard's primary role is not as a defensive specialist, he has taken on the responsibility of playing against strong opposing lines. Advanced metrics indicate that Bedard's line has often struggled to control play at even strength, which may prompt the coaching staff to consider adjustments, including potential line shuffling in future games. As the Blackhawks prepare for their next match against the Philadelphia Flyers, there is speculation about placing Bedard alongside a seasoned veteran like Taylor Hall or a fast young player such as Lukas Reichel.
