It is a long NHL season that is just getting underway, but Vancouver Canucks fans had to have November 16, 2024 circled on their calendars. The Canucks are hosting the Chicago Blackhawks and Connor Bedard at Rogers Arena.
North Vancouver native Connor Bedard is set to play his first NHL game in his hometown when the @NHLBlackhawks visit the @Canucks at 10 p.m. ET on @Sportsnet and Sportsnet+. #NHLStats pic.twitter.com/92U97IFoyb
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) November 16, 2024
This marks the first time teenage sensation and Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard will be playing on the rink he knew so well as a child. Bedard is a Vancouver native. At 19, he is one of the next generation of hockey superstars. He is composed and mature beyond his years.
Connor Bedard on whether he wants have a big night at hometown Rogers Arena:
“I always want to have offensive production, but no extra pressure or anything like that.” pic.twitter.com/ckywAViIiL
— Phillip Thompson (@_phil_thompson) November 16, 2024
Even with the added scrutiny of this game, the Blackhawks 2023 first overall pick, has handled everything with grace. He admitted that he enjoyed spending time with his family while home in Vancouver. Bedard also has special childhood memories of skating on the Rogers Arena ice.
“I feel the same as any other game, to be honest. I’m excited my family gets to be here and they get to enjoy that.”
–Connor Bedard on playing in his hometown, with the Vancouver Canucks hosting the Blackhawks tonight pic.twitter.com/bfDWxZfNgt
— Phillip Thompson (@_phil_thompson) November 16, 2024
Bedard is in his second season with the Blackhawks after a stellar rookie campaign that included winning the Calder Memorial Trophy, playing in the NHL All-Star Game, and being named to the NHL All-Rookie Team.
Connor Bedard accepts the 2024 Calder Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/iIPmQ8lZeB
— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) June 27, 2024
Connor Bedard’s Big Moment
Bedard will likely get a hero’s welcome in Vancouver. In addition to being a local boy, he also played on Canada’s senior national team this year.
He will have many family, friends, and fans in attendance.
The question will be how many Chicago Blackhawks jerseys will be visible in the crowd.
Connor Bedard you are a Vancouver Canuck pic.twitter.com/qSQE8bxrZM
— between2Pipes (@between2pipes) November 16, 2024
Connor Bedard has a long and promising career ahead. Vancouver Canucks fans hope that he might wear a Canucks jersey before it is over.
In the meantime, he takes the ice at 10 PM EST in Vancouver as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks.
