The Latest Breaking News from Connor Bedard

Everyone has been awed by some aspect of Bedard’s game through the first two days of camp. For Tyler Johnson, it’s Bedard’s unique shooting release. For Connor Murphy, it’s his ability to create space. For Luke Richardson, it’s his various similarities to Sidney Crosby, Mark Stone and Auston…

The presence of Connor Bedard and a number of other talented prospects lifted the mood at the first day of Hawks camp Thursday. Coach Luke Richardson said he hasn’t made any tweaks to his system yet, but he may eventually make some to accommodate the new personnel.

The Blackhawks welcome the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft into the fold this fall. We provide details on his play, his progress and his promise in Chicago throughout the days leading up to his Oct. 10 debut.

Connor Bedard’s acclimation to Chicago, Kevin Korchinski’s attempt to prove his NHL readiness and Luke Richardson’s line combinations and mentality toward prospects will all be interesting to watch.

With Jonathan Toews moving on after 15 years as captain, the Hawks will rely on a group of alternate captains to provide leadership this season (instead of giving the title to either Seth Jones or Connor Murphy). The decision opens the door for Connor Bedard to potentially assume the role…

Misiak was impressive during this weekend’s prospect tournament, demonstrating his array of skills and ability to play center and wing. As he heads to another new team — the OHL’s Erie Otters — this season, his development seems to be on the right track.

Bedard had been craving a chance to simply play hockey again. When he finally got his chance Saturday, he scored three goals — all on ridiculously quick, accurate shots — in a 5-0 Hawks win.

Bedard’s arrival and a loaded prospect pool has shrouded the reality that the Hawks’ record probably won’t be much better in 2023-24 than it was in 2022-23. Preseason gambling lines forecast the Hawks to be the NHL’s third-worst team.

The Hawks opened prospect camp Wednesday, a week ahead of the start of main training camp. Kaiser and top prospects Connor Bedard and Kevin Korchinski headline the group.

The Hawks expect their average attendance — which was 17,167 last season — to marginally increase again this season, with at least five games sold out. Their marketing campaign will also focus on the fan base.

Before the surgery in March, Guttman’s separation speed, faceoff ability and productivity impressed the Hawks at the AHL and NHL levels. He’ll be particularly interesting to watch in camp starting Sept. 21.