Bedard Has a Four-Point Night Against the Tampa Bay Lightning
AP Photo / Chris O’Meara
The Chicago Blackhawks wasted no time getting off to a strong start in their eventual 5-3 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday. The team had four goals in the first period alone, three of which came in the last four minutes of the frame. While this was a high-scoring period for both teams, the main story that came out of the first was about none other than Connor Bedard.
After two goals and an assist on Tyler Johnson’s go-ahead goal, the young rookie continued his already historic night with another assist on Corey Perry’s goal that gave Chicago a 5-2 lead in the second frame. Bedard became the youngest player in Blackhawks history and third-youngest in that of the NHL to have a four-point effort, last accomplished in 1944 by Bep Guidolin for the Boston Bruins.
“He’s been here for a dozen games now, he’s starting to really figure it out”
The center now leads Chicago in points, goals, and is tied for third in assists. He is being heavily depended on by the coaching staff, as he is averaging the second-most amount of ice time per game just behind Seth Jones. However, as a generational talent, Bedard seems quite comfortable with this spotlight and success. He has made it clear that he is all about team success and winning, not individual achievements. If he continues to score goals and dish out assists at the rate he is now, there will be many more victories on the Chicago scoresheet in the near future. The Blackhawks have a tough test ahead with a Sunday afternoon game against the 7-4-1 defending Eastern Conference champion Florida Panthers and again against the Lightning, who will be seeking revenge, next Thursday.
