"I can’t let my parents sell the house": Connor Bedard reveals emotional reason behind attachment to childhood home

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard has a strong attachment to his childhood home in North Vancouver. It’s where he first became passionate about hockey, and the house holds many of his early memories of playing and practicing.

According to Chicago magazine, his parents Mеlaniе and Tom, recently refinished the hardwood floors, erasing the scratches and marks left from years of rollerblading and stickhandling indoors.

Bedard said these marks were special reminders of his start in hockey and that he would never allow his parents to part with the place he called for so many years.

“I can’t let my parents sell the house.”

Bedard said he spent his first NHL offseason back at home, where he managed to stick to his training routine while enjoying familiar comforts.

“I’d get up from working out or skating that morning, and breakfast would be ready. I didn’t have to pay rent or anything. It was pretty nice. I love spending time with my family.”

As per Chicago magazine, the house is only a short bike ride from the North Shore Winter Club, where Bedard spent countless hours practicing. He trained by himself regularly, working on his shots and stickhandling.

In the backyard of the house, Connor Bedard also practiced shooting pucks. Over time, a neighbor built a small shooting gallery for him, complete with netting and a platform.

After the NHL draft, Connor Bedard moved into his own apartment.

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Connor Bedard had reduced ice time in OT win against the Wild

The Chicago Blackhawks beat the Minnesota Wild 2-1 in overtime at the United Center on Sunday. Philipp Kurashev scored the winning goal 1:50 into overtime with help from Seth Jones, who intercepted a pass and set up Kurashev’s shot.

Jason Dickinson scored first for the Blackhawks in the first period, skating into the slot and firing a wrist shot. Matt Boldy tied the game for the Wild in the third period, assisted by Kirill Kaprizov. Rookie Connor Bedard had 16:40 of ice time, his lowest this season, with two shots and no points.

Blackhawks goalie Petr Mrazek made 32 saves, including several critical ones in the third period. Coach Luke Richardson praised Mrazek postgame, calling him the game’s best player for his strong performance, especially under pressure late in the game.

Richardson said,

“I thought we played a really solid game, but he was there all game when we needed him. The third period... Petr was excellent and kept us in there right to the end.”

Richardson also expressed the need to stay focused for a full 60 minutes.