The Connor Bedard era in Chicago has already delivered big moments, but tonight’s matchup against the New York Rangers carries a different kind of weight.
The Chicago Blackhawks enter this Original Six battle on a two-game skid, having been outscored 13–1 in their last two outings. With pressure mounting and criticism growing, Bedard made it clear during Tuesday’s media session that he isn’t letting the outside noise drag the team down. Instead, the 20-year-old star delivered a reminder to reporters, and to fans, that momentum can change quickly in the NHL.
Connor Bedard pushes back at the narrative as the Blackhawks try to reset
Chicago’s young roster has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but the last two games revealed the challenges of navigating such a demanding league with one of its youngest teams. Still, while many focused on the blowout losses, Connor Bedard chose not to dwell on the negativity.
When asked about the team’s recent struggles, Bedard gave a response that instantly went viral for its honesty:
“The beauty of it is: if we win, you guys will forget about it all and we’ll be the best team ever again,” Bedard said.
“So we’re just going to have a good game and get back on track.”
It was a mature moment from a player still early in his NHL career, someone who understands both the pressure of being a No. 1 pick and the noise that surrounds a rebuilding franchise. Bedard knows the Blackhawks can’t change the past. They can only focus on the next shift, the next game, and the next response.
And that response will need to be strong. The Blackhawks haven’t just lost two straight, they’ve been dominated. Being outscored 13–1 in consecutive games highlights the inconsistencies of a roster still learning how to compete nightly. But Bedard’s leadership, even at 20 years old, shows why he’s viewed as the future face of the franchise.
The challenge ahead is steep, but Bedard’s message sets the tone: put the last two games behind them and fight for a reset against one of the league’s toughest road teams.
Both teams seek a breakthrough, but the Rangers hold road advantage
While Chicago enters the matchup with plenty to fix, the New York Rangers aren’t arriving in perfect form either. Mike Sullivan’s team also rides a two-game losing streak, but unlike Chicago’s blowouts, New York’s losses came in overtime at Madison Square Garden. They’ve been competitive, but unable to close games.
That’s where the similarities end.
New York has been one of the NHL’s best road teams, sporting an impressive 12-4-1 record away from Manhattan. Their structure, depth, and veteran leadership have made them far more dangerous on the road than at home, where they surprisingly own the league’s worst home record at 3-8-3.
The Blackhawks, meanwhile, have shown promise at the United Center but remain inconsistent. Their youth often shines offensively, but defensive lapses and untimely mistakes have cost them in key moments. Facing a disciplined Rangers squad will test Chicago’s ability to structure their game, stay patient, and avoid the breakdowns that doomed them in Los Angeles and Anaheim.
Still, Chicago has one major weapon: Bedard. The young superstar continues to push the pace, create scoring chances, and carry the Hawks’ offense despite the team’s struggles. His confidence, even after difficult losses, helps fuel the rest of the lineup.
With both clubs trying to end losing streaks, tonight’s game could turn into an emotional, high-energy battle. For the Rangers, it’s another chance to extend their dominance on the road. For the Blackhawks, it’s an opportunity to prove they can respond, bounce back, and take a step forward in their development.
And for Connor Bedard, it might be the perfect moment to back up his bold words with another statement performance on home ice.
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