5 Thoughts on the Blackhawks’ Games Since Bedard’s Return

It’s been an exciting few days for the Chicago Blackhawks. That’s because Connor Bedard returned to the lineup after being out 14 games and 40 days (like we weren’t counting or anything) following jaw surgery. To the delight of every fan at the United Center, Bedard made a surprise early return against the Pittsburgh Penguins and Bedard’s childhood idol, Sidney Crosby, on Feb. 15.

Unfortunately, the team couldn’t find a win against the Penguins, but they snapped an eight-game losing skid on Saturday afternoon (Feb. 17) with a big win over the Ottawa Senators. Let’s get to some thoughts from the last two games, and the Bedard effect.

Bedard Changes Everything

Yep, for everyone that’s watched all the contests where Bedard didn’t play knows exactly what I’m talking about. This kid just adds a new dynamic to the team. Obviously, he gives the Blackhawks more depth and more balance to the lineup, and of course he’s a player that knows how to score goals. Which was a big problem when he was out (the Blackhawks scored one or zero goals in nine of the 14 games where Bedard was out).

But Bedard just provides a different dynamic and energy to the team. He’s only 18 years old! Yet he’s arguably the most important player they have. Head coach Luke Richardson attributes some of that to his unbelievable drive and determination. “He’s just driven. Loves to play, loves to score and help the team in that way. He’s really mild-mannered in every other part of his lifestyle away from the rink — even at the rink — and he just lights up when he gets on that ice.”

Bedard lit it up this past Thursday when he provided the perfect dish to Philipp Kurashev for a goal. It ended up being the only tally of the game for the Blackhawks. But Bedard took charge and led the play in the final 40 minutes after a rusty first period. He ended the night with a primary assist, four shots on goal and the team lead in ice time among forwards, with 21:17 minutes.

Related – Connor Bedard is Enough to Earn Blackhawks the Winter Classic

Bedard kicked it up a notch against the Senators, tallying a goal, an assist and five shots on net in the 3-2 win. Also, how about his chemistry with Kurashev?! The Swiss forward has nine goals on the season, and Bedard is credited with primary assists on five of them. I’m sure Kurashev is ecstatic Bedard is…