Connor Bedard, a generational hockey talent and first overall pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft, had a strong rookie season despite an injury, is a favorite for the Calder Trophy, and welcomed new Chicago Bears draftees Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze to the city on social media.
Connor Bedard isn’t just any hockey player. He’s a once-in-a-generation kind of talent. That’s why the Chicago Blackhawks snagged him first in the 2023 NHL Draft. And, oh boy, did he live up to the hype in his rookie season.
Despite a setback—14 games on the bench with a broken jaw—Bedard didn’t just sit around. He racked up 22 goals and 39 assists, bringing his total to a whopping 61 points in just 68 games. Now, he’s the frontrunner for the Calder Trophy. That’s the big one for the NHL Rookie of the Year. Everyone’s got their eyes on the NHL Awards Show, set for June 27 in Las Vegas.
And guess what? Bedard’s not even 19 until July. But age is just a number, right? He’s also got an eye for talent beyond the ice. Especially when it comes to players heading to Chicago.
The Chicago Bears made some moves too. They picked Caleb Williams from USC first overall. Then, they snagged wide receiver Rome Odunze from Washington with the ninth pick in the NFL Draft. It all went down Thursday night.
Bedard? He was quick to welcome the duo to the Windy City. How? With a tweet on X, of course. “Welcome to Chicago,” he probably said. Just like that, a new chapter begins for these athletes in Chicago.
