NHL makes huge announcement on North Vancouver native Connor Bedard

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Cooper Godin
April 30, 2024 (9:51)

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Despite missing several weeks with a jaw injury, North Vancouver native Connor Bedard had a strong rookie season in the National Hockey League and on Tuesday was recognized for the great start to his career.

In a post on social media, the National Hockey League announced that Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks, along with Minnesota Wild defenceman Brock Faber and New Jersey Devils defenceman Luke Hughes, have been named as the three finalists for the Calder Memorial Trophy, which is handed out annually to the best rookie.

"Connor Bedard, C, Chicago Blackhawks

Bedard led or co-led both rookies and the Blackhawks in goals (22), assists (39) and points (61) despite missing 14 games due to injury (68 GP). At 18 years, 276 days on the final day of the campaign, he became the second-youngest player in League history to finish as the rookie leader, outright or tied, in all three categories � behind Nathan MacKinnon in 2013-14 (18 years, 224 days; 24-39�63 in 82 GP w/ COL) � as well as the second-youngest rookie in NHL history to achieve the feat for his team � after Sidney Crosby in 2005-06 (18 years, 254 days; 39‑63�102 in 81 GP w/ PIT). The No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 NHL Draft also became the third-youngest player in League history to score a regular-season overtime goal (Dec. 27 vs. WPG) and the fifth 18-year-old to post a five-point performance (March 12 vs. ANA). Bedard additionally finished among the 2023-24 rookie leaders in shots on goal (1st; 206), takeaways (1st; 47), power-play assists (2nd; 17), power-play points (2nd; 21), power-play goals (t-2nd; 4), game-winning goals (t-4th; 2) and total time on ice (6th; 1,345:16). He is seeking to become the 10th Chicago player to win the Calder Trophy and first since Artemi Panarin in 2015-16." The NHL said.

Bedard, 18, appeared in 68 games for the Chicago Blackhawks this season where he put up 61 points (22 goals, 39 assists), 28 penalty minutes and was a minus-44. The Blackhawks appear to be ready to turn the page in their rebuild and start to be more competitive with Bedard leading the way and they may be aggressive in unrestricted free agency this summer looking to add to their roster.

Hockey fans won't have to wait long to see Connor Bedard back on the ice as he'll be representing Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Hockey Championship in Czechia starting on May 10th.