Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard shows readiness for captaincy, says it would be a "special honor"

Connor Bedard has expressed his readiness to take on a bigger leadership role with the Chicago Blackhawks, saying that it would be a special honor for him to be the next captain of the team as the franchise continues to rebuild.

The 20-year-old forward, who has been an alternate captain on the team, has acknowledged that the leadership responsibility would add commitment towards the team more, and emphasized that the Blackhawks' strong locker room culture always makes it easier for players to step into leadership roles.

According to the NHL, Bedard has scored 30 goals, 45 assists with 75 points in 69 games played this season in 2025-26. If Bedard takes charge of the team, he would become the 37th captain of this prestigious team.

Connor Bedard to step up as captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, calls it an honor for him

Connor Bedard has expressed his readiness to become the 37th captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, calling it an honor for him to serve the team. This decision might have come due to Bedard’s rising influence.

Following midseason roster changes that left the team without a permanent captain, the organization has been evaluating its leadership structure heading into the next campaign, and the team feels that Bedard would be perfect fit for the team.

Speaking about the same, Bedard said, “If I did get the ‘C’, I’m not going to change who I am and become something different just because of that letter. “It’s an added responsibility that I do think I would be ready for. A lot of guys could be ready for it in that room. But it would be a special honor, for sure.”


Meanwhile, his teammates are also of the belief that Connor Bedard would make a good captain for the team. “He’s the perfect guy for [the captaincy],” Ryan Greene said. “He cares about his teammates and checks in on everybody all the time. He’s our guy. So he’s leading the way in a lot of different ways. I think he’s more than ready,” he added.

In this regard, general manager Kyle Davidson said he will treat the captaincy as an organizational decision and hold meetings throughout with people in different roles to gather their input. However, he also didn’t rule out the possibility of the Hawks entering next season without a captain.

Known as the face of the franchise, Bedard has been one of the marquee players of the team, and he continues to develop both on and off the ice. During the 2025–26 season, he led the team offensively, further strengthening his case as a long-term leader, which already makes him a perfect leader who will be at the helm of the team soon.

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