“Connor Bedard: The Game-Changing Force Behind the Chicago Blackhawks’ Revival”
Chicago Blackhawks fans are well acquainted with the “Bedard Effect,” which has been evident from the start. Following the team’s draft lottery win, which guaranteed they’d pick Connor Bedard first in the 2023 NHL Draft, they sold $5.2 million worth of season tickets. Additionally, they ranked fourth in NHL game attendance last season, reaching their highest attendance figures since 2019-20, despite being the second-worst team in the league. Bedard’s jersey also became the highest-selling of the 2023-24 season.
These aspects of Bedard’s influence are familiar to fans. His Calder Trophy win in June added to the excitement, but the impact on the ice is where it really matters. Players have noticed the “Bedard Effect,” though they may not call it that explicitly. This summer, the term came up in two distinct contexts.
Bedard’s Appeal to Other Players
When players join new teams, they often mention their desire to see championship potential. For the Blackhawks, Bedard’s presence plays a significant role in that vision. He led the team in scoring with 61 points in 68 games, and his absence due to a fractured jaw made his impact even more apparent. The team’s tempo changed when he was in the lineup. This has not gone unnoticed by fans, coaches, and, most importantly, other players, influencing how teams view the Blackhawks.
On July 1, the Blackhawks were the busiest team in free agency, signing eight players. One notable signing was goaltender Laurent Brossoit, who cited Chicago’s bright future and Bedard’s influence as key reasons for joining the team. He mentioned hearing about players considering Chicago during the free agency period, a direct result of the “Bedard Effect.”
Last season was about introducing Bedard to the league, and while many expected him to make Chicago a more attractive destination, this summer’s free agency showed the potential for this trend to continue. Bedard is now the primary draw for players, a role Patrick Kane once held. This is especially significant with the 2025-26 season on the horizon and high-profile free agents like Mitch Marner potentially being influenced by Bedard’s presence.
Bedard’s Impact on Team Culture
While Chicago may be attracting players, building a strong team culture is crucial. Nick Foligno, on the “Dropping The Gloves” podcast, emphasized the importance of everyone contributing to the team’s success. He highlighted the potential for the team to improve rapidly if they work together, and the “Bedard Effect” plays a vital role in this.
Bedard’s influence extends beyond his individual success. His presence has elevated the performance of his teammates, such as Philipp Kurashev, Jason Dickinson, Ryan Donato, and Foligno himself. Having a star player who enhances the play of those around him fosters team success and attracts players eager to join the Blackhawks.
When Bedard won the Calder Trophy, he credited his teammates, and Foligno echoed this sentiment, stressing that it takes a collective effort. The “Bedard Effect” is complemented by a talented pipeline of prospects, young talent, and a strong work ethic under head coach Luke Richardson, alongside respected veterans like Foligno, Seth Jones, and Alec Martinez. This synergy is creating a ripple effect throughout the team, driven by Bedard’s influence.