Connor Bedard Wins Back-to-Back Rookie of the Month Honors

In what might be foreshadowing for the Calder Memorial Trophy for the league’s best rookie, Connor Bedard has been named the rookie of the month for his efforts in December. It’s the second consecutive month that the Chicago Blackhawks rookie has nabbed the honor.

It’s hardly surprising, either, as Bedard has continued to guide the Chicago attack and provide highlight reel goals in his 36 games so far this season.

Connor Bedard has been named the NHL’s “Rookie of the Month” for December.

He led all rookies with 5-10—15 in 15 GP and factored on 45.5% of Chicago’s total goals during the month (15 of 33) – the third highest among all skaters.#NHLStats: https://t.co/Sv8nmv0iPo pic.twitter.com/qMeXmq2l6h

— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) January 2, 2024

Another Accolade for Connor Bedard

He was the odds on favorite to win the Calder before the season began and a second straight rookie of the month honor seems to he making it an all but foregone conclusion. Bedard was a point-per-game in both November and December, nabbing 15 points after adding another 12 in November. In October, the rookie collected six points (4-2) in nine games.

December’s efforts also saw Bedard pull off the Michigan against St. Louis back on December 23, though the Blackhawks would go onto blow a 5-2 lead and fall 7-5.

Bedard leads the Blackhawks in goals, assists, and points and has a margin of 11 more points than any other teammate. Though there’s debate that competition for the Calder exists, Bedard has been head and shoulders better than the competition, driving Chicago’s offense with a roster designed to garner high odds for the 2024 NHL Draft Lottery.

Bedard would be the first to acknowledge the award but has also been steadfast in his team first mentality. Beyond the production, Bedard is also top ten in takeaways in the league. It’s the defensive side that he continues to shore up, having a couple tough plays in the Blackhawks 8-1 loss to Dallas on Sunday.

Building Around Bedard Will Be Key This Offseason

Though he’s been the main driver of Chicago’s success offensively, injuries are piling up and only drawing more attention to him as the Blackhawks lack a plethora of scoring threats. While he continues to rack up the awards, it’s clear that Chicago will need to bring in more talent to ensure the positive momentum continues.

Help is on the way from many prospects, and there could be some intriguing options both in free agency and via trade.

Connor Bedard is exactly as advertised. The next step will be infusing the roster with more talent so Chicago can take the next step.