Connor Bedard makes his feelings known about his relationship with $9 million Blackhawks captain

In an October 24 interview with TSN’s Jay Onrait, Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard spoke about his relationship with team captain Nick Foligno. Entering his second NHL season, Bedard described Foligno as a positive influence and mentor.

When asked if Foligno could keep up with him on the ice, Connor Bedard laughed and praised Foligno's play, saying:

"Yeah, no, he keeps up. Well, I mean, I'm no speedster myself, so, you know, he's, he's playing great, and it's been good to see." [02:06]

Foligno, who is on a two-year $9 million contract, became the Blackhawks' captain in September 2024, replacing Jonathan Toews, who held the role for 15 years. As a veteran, Foligno helps create a welcoming environment for the younger players.

"And, yeah, I think just with our young guys, he's been, he's really good at, you know, bringing us in," Bedard said. "And, you know, we've got, we had a lot of good, lot of good guys last year and this year as well that just make it, make it a room that you're comfortable walking into. So, you know, I feel pretty lucky for a lot of them."

Foligno’s leadership was important for Bedard in his rookie season, where he tallied 23 goals and 45 assists for 68 points. This season, Bedard is expected to improve further, with some predicting he could reach 82 points. Both players also dealt with injuries last season. Bedard broke his jaw in January 2024 after a hit from a Devils player, while Foligno fractured his finger in the same game.

Despite their injuries, Connor Bedard and Foligno have built a strong bond. Bedard feels lucky to have a veteran like Foligno as a mentor.

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Connor Bedard was held without a point in a 6-3 loss to Vancouver

The Chicago Blackhawks lost 6-3 to the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, with rookie Connor Bedard not scoring any points. Vancouver took control early, with Danton Heinen scoring just 21 seconds into the game. J.T. Miller added a goal and two assists, while Conor Garland had a goal and an assist.

The Blackhawks got goals from Ryan Donato, Taylor Hall and Tyler Bertuzzi. Donato made it 2-1 in the first period, Hall cut the score to 3-2, and Bertuzzi scored late in the game on a power play.

Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno was disappointed with the team's slow start. He said:

"It sets the tone for a lot of the game."

Vancouver’s strong offense helped them secure their third straight win.