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Blackhawks coach reveals why Connor Bedard stays on ice in big moments
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- Blackhawks coach reveals why Connor Bedard stays on ice in big moments
Chicago Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill has explained why Connor Bedard remains on the ice during crucial moments, despite areas of his defensive game needing improvement. Blashill praised the young captain's competitiveness after Chicago defeated the Los Angeles Kings 2-1 on Tuesday.
" He gets knocked about defense more than he should," Blashill said of Bedard to NHL media.
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"There's a reason why he's out there at the end of the game. Because when the game's on the line, he is hyper competitive."
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With 22 seconds remaining, Connor Bedard blocked a crucial shot during the Kings' 6-on-5 attack and cleared the puck from the defensive zone. His defensive effort then drew a holding penalty in the neutral zone, helping run down the remaining time.
Blashill's comments show that the coach recognizes that the 21-year-old still has room to improve, but trusts his determination when the outcome matters most.
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Bedard helped Chicago end a three-game losing streak against Los Angeles. His precise feed to rookie Roman Kantserov tied the game late in the second period and ended the Blackhawks' power-play drought.
Kantserov scored at 16:40 of the second period, converting Bedard's pass after Joel Armia took consecutive penalties. Defenseman Wyatt Kaiser then scored the winner at 7:17 of the third period. Goaltender Spencer Knight stopped 25 shots as Chicago protected its advantage.
Connor Bedard's competitiveness helps the Blackhawks
Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Kings left wing Trevor Moore (12) and Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) chase the puck at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Bedard's offensive instincts remain central to the Blackhawks' plans. The way he creates scoring chances gives Chicago a threat in tight games, particularly when opponents limit open space.
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However, Blashill's assessment also identifies an important development area. Bedard must become more reliable defensively as he takes on greater responsibility as captain and the centerpiece of Chicago's young core.
Bedard has made consistent improvement since his draft in 2023, but so far has finished every season with a minus rating, that too in double figures. This season, he is -2 so far, in 6 games, with 2 goals and 6 points.
That growth matters because offensive production alone cannot consistently decide close NHL games. Stronger defensive positioning and puck management would make Bedard even more effective in late-game situations.
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The coach's comments suggest that Bedard's influence in decisive moments outweighs his current defensive shortcomings. Meanwhile, the win provides momentum as it continues developing its young roster.
Bedard's challenge is to maintain his offensive influence while becoming a more complete player.
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