The Chicago Blackhawks announced forward Connor Bedard as the 37th captain in franchise history Tuesday.
Bedard succeeds Nick Foligno, who was traded to the Minnesota Wild last season.
At 21 years and 60 days old, Bedard is the second-youngest captain in Blackhawks history behind Jonathan Toews (20 years, 79 days).
"Being named captain of the Blackhawks is an unbelievable honor and something I'm truly humbled by," Bedard said in a statement. "The captains who have come before me have left an incredible legacy. To now have the opportunity to carry that tradition forward is something I don't take lightly.
"I'm grateful to the organization and my teammates for putting their trust in me to lead this team. We're building something really special here, and I'm committed to making the entire Blackhawks organization and our fans proud."
Bedard produced a career-high 75 points in 69 games with the Blackhawks last season. He appeared poised for an even greater season, as he racked up 44 points in his first 31 contests before suffering a shoulder injury that derailed his chances of making Canada's Olympic team.
Bedard won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie when he tallied 61 points in 68 games in 2023-24. He managed 67 points in 82 appearances as a sophomore.
Chicago selected Bedard first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft.
