The Connor Bedard Effect: Chicago Buzzing Ahead of the NHL Draft 2023

Connor Bedard: The Next Great Star in Chicago

The excitement in Chicago is palpable as the Blackhawks selected 17-year-old Canadian center Connor Bedard with the first pick in the NHL draft. Fans gathered in droves at a watch party, and the team saw a surge in season ticket sales, with Bedard expected to make a significant impact on both the ice and at the box office. Bedard’s exceptional performance in the Western Hockey League, where he amassed 129 points, coupled with his contributions to Canada’s gold medal win at the IIHF World Hockey Junior Championship, have set high expectations for the young phenom.

A Potential Bargain for the Blackhawks

If Bedard lives up to the projections, he could go down as one of the biggest bargains in league history. As a top draft pick, Bedard falls under the NHL’s salary structure, which caps rookie contracts. He can earn a maximum of $13.5 million over three years, equating to $4.5 million per year. This includes a base salary of $925,000, supplemented by signing bonuses and additional performance-based bonuses.

The salary structure and overall team cap of $83.5 million allow smaller-market teams like Chicago to compete with major markets such as Boston, Toronto, New York, and Los Angeles. Bedard’s potential superstar status will undoubtedly impact the Blackhawks’ team building strategy and provide much-needed excitement to a team in transition and rebuilding mode.

A Comparison to Previous Top Picks

Bedard’s arrival in the NHL is highly anticipated, drawing parallels to the likes of Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews. McDavid, selected by the Edmonton Oilers as the top pick in the 2015 draft, has been an exceptional player, living up to the expectations of a No. 1 pick. He signed a three-year rookie contract worth $11.3 million and has since inked an eight-year, $100 million deal. McDavid’s numerous accolades, including being named league MVP and leading in goals and points, demonstrate the impact a top pick can have on a team.

The last time the Blackhawks held the first pick was in 2007 when they chose Patrick Kane. Kane signed a three-year rookie contract worth $11.2 million. Since then, he has become a cornerstone player for the team, contributing to their Stanley Cup victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015. While Kane finished the past season with the New York Rangers, he remains an unrestricted free agent, leaving an opening for the Blackhawks to potentially secure his return.

A Team in Transition

The Blackhawks have recently undergone a period of transition, missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons and five out of the past six seasons. This decline in performance has affected attendance, with last season’s numbers being the lowest since 2007-08. Prior to the pandemic, the team experienced a peak in attendance during the 2018-19 season, but they have since seen a significant drop in fans per game.

With Bedard’s arrival, the Blackhawks are hoping to reignite the excitement that accompanied their championship-winning years. The young center has the potential to lead the team back to the promised land and revitalize the fan base.

Editorial and Advice

The acquisition of Connor Bedard presents an opportunity for the Chicago Blackhawks to rebuild and regain their winning ways. The team’s recent struggles have resulted in a dip in attendance, and the promise of Bedard’s talent can rejuvenate not only the team but also the fan base.

As the Blackhawks embark on this new era, they must carefully manage Bedard’s development. While there is a temptation to thrust him into the spotlight immediately, it is crucial to ensure his long-term success. Bedard is still young, and his transition to the NHL will require time for adjustment and growth.

Chicago should provide Bedard with strong mentorship from experienced players and coaches who can guide him through the nuances and challenges of the professional game. Building a strong support system around the young player is essential for his development and mental well-being.

Furthermore, the Blackhawks should prioritize team-building around Bedard’s skill set. Adding complementary players who can enhance his abilities and contribute to the team’s success will be crucial in maximizing Bedard’s impact. The focus should be on fostering a cohesive team dynamic that values collaboration and cooperation.

Lastly, patience will be key. The Blackhawks, as well as the fans, must temper their expectations and understand that Bedard’s development may have its ups and downs. A measured approach, combined with a supportive environment, will allow Bedard to gradually find his footing and ultimately shine as the next great star in Chicago.