As the Chicago Blackhawks move deeper into their rebuilding phase, one question has begun to echo more loudly across Fifth Third Arena and among the fans — who will be the next true leader of this team? Who will step out of the long shadow cast by Jonathan Toews and become the face, voice, and heartbeat of the franchise?
If you look closely, the answer may already be emerging. And his name is Connor Bedard.
A Torch Already Being Passed
At just 19 years old, Bedard is not your average prospect. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick arrived in Chicago with sky-high expectations — and somehow, exceeded them. In his rookie season, Bedard led the team with 60 points in 68 games, despite missing time due to a fractured jaw. His poise under pressure, offensive instincts, and humility off the ice didn’t just impress fans — they earned quiet nods of approval from inside the locker room.
“He leads without trying,” one team source said. “Guys watch how he trains, how he carries himself. He’s not loud, but people follow him.”
Coaches Whisper, Teammates Watch
The Blackhawks have brought in a new coaching staff this offseason, headlined by Jeff Blashill — a respected former Red Wings coach known for developing young stars in Detroit. He’s joined by assistant Michael Peca, a former NHL captain with a reputation for instilling accountability and maturity in rising players. Their arrival isn’t a coincidence — it’s part of a larger plan to build the franchise’s identity around Bedard.
While no one in the front office has publicly named a future captain, the signals are there. Bedard is expected to take on more leadership responsibilities this fall — from increased media duties to being the voice on the ice and in the locker room. According to reports from training staff, he’s already being consulted on team-building activities and pre-season prep, a rare move for a teenager on an NHL roster.
The Weight of Toews’ Legacy
Since Jonathan Toews stepped away from the team following the 2022–23 season, the “C” on the Blackhawks jersey has remained vacant. The team has opted not to rush into naming a new captain — not out of hesitation, but out of respect. Toews wasn’t just a leader; he was a cultural cornerstone, a three-time Stanley Cup champion, and the symbol of a dynasty.
That legacy hasn’t disappeared — it lingers in every discussion about leadership in Chicago. And that’s exactly what makes the grooming of Bedard so fascinating. He’s not being asked to “replace” Toews, but to carve out his own identity in a franchise desperate for a new pillar. And he’s doing just that.
Signs of a Leader in the Making
In team meetings, Bedard listens more than he speaks — but when he talks, veterans are listening. In practices, he’s often the last to leave the ice. And during games, especially late in the season, he took on more of the heavy matchups and pressure shifts — not because he was told to, but because he wanted to.
Nick Foligno, one of the few veteran voices in the room, has taken Bedard under his wing. Foligno has made it clear that leadership on this team must be earned — and according to multiple reports, he believes Bedard is earning it.
What Happens Next?
The 2025–26 season will be a defining one. Not just for Bedard, but for the entire Blackhawks organization. With another top draft pick likely joining the team, continued development of players like Kevin Korchinski and Frank Nazar, and a new coaching staff resetting the culture, Chicago is laying the foundation for something bigger.
Don’t be surprised if Connor Bedard is wearing a letter on his jersey this fall. Maybe not the “C” just yet — but make no mistake: he is already the leader this team is quietly being built around.
The torch hasn’t been officially passed. But it’s already in his hands.
