Blackhawks Name Connor Bedard Team Captain at 21

The Chicago Blackhawks have named forward Connor Bedard, 21, as the team's captain, according to ESPN.

Bedard becomes the second-youngest captain in franchise history. Jonathan Toews, a franchise icon and three-time Stanley Cup champion, was 20 years old when he was given the captaincy.

ESPN reported the announcement but did not provide further details on the timing of the decision or comments from team officials or Bedard himself.

Bedard was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft and has quickly become a central figure for the Blackhawks organization. His appointment as captain places him among a small group of young players entrusted with leading their teams at an early stage of their careers.

Further details about the announcement, including any statements from the Blackhawks organization, were not immediately available.