Connor Bedard has been named the 37th captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, with Tyler Bertuzzi and Patrick Kane designated as alternate captains, head coach Jeff Blashill announced at a news conference held Tuesday at the United Center. This leadership group brings together Bedard’s emerging talent with Bertuzzi’s and Kane’s extensive experience.
Bedard, who recently underwent left shoulder surgery, acknowledged the honor with a mix of gratitude and humor during the announcement, playfully noting the difference in dress between himself and teammates Kane and Oliver Moore. Coach Blashill emphasized the complementary nature of the trio’s leadership qualities, indicating that others on the team would also contribute to the group’s overall leadership throughout the season.
Tyler Bertuzzi, a 31-year-old winger entering his 11th NHL season and third with Chicago, has emerged as a steady veteran presence. Last season, he set career highs with 32 goals and 26 assists, contributing 58 points despite the Blackhawks finishing with the second-worst record in the league. Bertuzzi’s consistent effort and front-of-the-net play earned him the alternate captaincy for the first time after the trades of Nick Foligno, Connor Murphy, and Jason Dickinson.
“I’m looking to still grow and learn as a leader and as a player,” Bertuzzi said during a training camp session at the Blackhawks Ice Center. “It’s an honor to get to wear an ‘A’ and lead by example.” He noted that while the team is known for its work ethic, there remains room for improvement in various areas. Bertuzzi also highlighted the ongoing process of becoming a more vocal leader, a quality he and Bedard are working to develop together.
General manager Kyle Davidson described awarding the captaincy to Bedard as an obvious decision, pointing to Bertuzzi’s respected role in the locker room. “He’s a person whose opinion carries weight,” Davidson said. “Whether you’re wearing a letter or not, there’s a leadership role to play. Tyler certainly fell into that category since he’s arrived.”
During early camp practices, Bertuzzi has been positioned as the left wing on the second line, flanked by center Anton Frondell and right wing Nick Lardis. Kane, meanwhile, skated on the right wing of the top line and will serve as an experienced counterpart to Bedard once the young captain returns to full health. Bertuzzi expressed appreciation for the opportunity to lead alongside Kane, a franchise icon. “You can learn off him, bounce some ideas, and watch and see how he leads,” Bertuzzi remarked.
Reflecting on the previous season, Bedard and Bertuzzi agreed that missing the playoffs served as motivation. Bertuzzi said the team appears more energized and focused this year, describing it as “the most excited it seems everyone’s been for a training camp and for a season to start.” With renewed commitment and a blend of youth and experience at the helm, the Blackhawks are aiming to improve their standing in the upcoming NHL season.