NHL · Central · Est. 1926 · United Center
Updated March 16, 2026
Connor Bedard was on a tear before a shoulder injury in December sidelined him for 12 games. Through 53 games, the 20-year-old has 27 goals and 62 points — numbers that would have him firmly in the Hart Trophy conversation had he stayed healthy. He's back and looking dangerous again.
The Blackhawks rank 29th in the power rankings, but the underlying numbers tell a more encouraging story. Chicago's first-half stats showed steady improvement in both offense and defense compared to last season, even if the wins haven't fully materialized.
Everything in Chicago runs through Bedard now. In his third NHL season, he's evolved from exciting prospect to legitimate franchise centerpiece, and management's job is to surround him with the supporting cast to match. The next two offseasons will define this rebuild.