The Chicago Blackhawks have rewarded rising star Connor Bedard with a leadership role during the 2025-26 NHL season. This is his third NHL season for the Calder Trophy winning foward, who is also in his contract year.On Wednesday, NHL reporter Ben Pope revealed on X that Bedard will serve as an alternate captain for the rest of the season. The move reflects the organizations growing trust in the young center as the team continues its rebuild.Head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed the decision and explained why Bedard earned the promotion.Hes earned it with his commitment to winning hockey, Blashill said.Blashill also pointed to Bedards work ethic and competitive mindset as key factors behind the decision. Thats the biggest thing I talked to him about today, Blashill said. Hes very competitive; he works hard every day.Blashill confirmed Connor Bedard will be an alternate captain for the rest of the season."He's earned it with his commitment to winning hockey. That's the biggest thing I talked to him about today. He's very competitive; he works hard every day." Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) March 4, 2026Bedard addressed the honor while speaking about the veterans who shaped his development. He mentioned teammates such as Connor Murphy (traded to the Edmonton Oilers), Jason Dickinson, and Nick Foligno as leaders he has learned from over the past two seasons.Theres guys like Murph, like Dicky, like Fliggy that weve learned from for a couple years now, Bedard said. Obviously, the letter doesnt change anything you do as a person, but its nice to be recognized like that.Foligno currently serves as the Blackhawks captain. The veteran forward became the 35th captain in franchise history when the team named him to the role in September 2024.Also read:NHLs Gary Bettman defends U.S. mens hockey team after Olympics winBlackhawks struggles despite Connor Bedards breakout seasonChicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) during a game against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn ImagesBedards promotion comes during another strong offensive season for the young star. In 48 games, he has recorded 25 goals and 32 assists for 57 points while averaging nearly 21 minutes of ice time. His production leads Chicago in assists and total points.Bedard is also the core part of the teams power play and offensive attack.Despite Bedards success, the Blackhawks continue to face challenges in the standings. Chicago holds a 23-28-10 record and sits seventh in the Central Division with 56 points. Their season took a challenging turn after a 10-5-4 start, and they havent been able to solve it.Still, the alternate captain role signals the franchises long-term faith in Bedard. As Chicago builds its young core, the former No. 1 draft pick continues to grow into both an offensive leader and a voice inside the locker room. Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead NFL: 5 most overrated NFL free agents hitting the market in 2026MLB: What drug did Jurickson Profar take? MLB announces PED useSPORTS MEDIA: Stephen A. Smith bashes underwhelming NBA star as food addictVIRAL: NBC delivers epic nostalgia with Throwback Tuesday NBA broadcastWORLD CUP: Will Iran compete in the 2026 World Cup? Donald Trump weighs inWNBA: Players, union leaders divided, claims letter from 2-time MVP and 4-time All-StarThe post Blackhawks give Connor Bedard a promotion amid NHL season appeared first on The Big Lead.