Connor Bedard should get Blackhawks ‘C’ despite Patrick Kane’s return

The Chicago Blackhawks should grant captaincy to Connor Bedard, despite the return of Patrick Kane, according to Ryan Brandell. Kane's two-year, $16 million contract adds championship expertise and rich franchise history to the locker room. Bedard, who signed a five-year, $75 million deal in July, led the team with 75 points in 69 games last season, achieving career highs in goals and points.

Brandell stated, "If it were me, I would say Bedard gets it." He supported Bedard's contract and development as reasons for the decision. Though Brandell believes Kane should still lead with or without the captaincy, he emphasizes that Kane will mentor younger players while Bedard assumes the mantle of leading the franchise's future.

Brandell compared the scenario to Brent Seabrook's leadership during Chicago's championship era, asserting that leadership doesn't solely depend on the captain's designation. Kane's return brings familiarity with Chicago's expectations and the responsibility of representing the team. Bedard expressed that he would feel "very lucky" to play alongside Kane, praising his ability to elevate the team.

The Blackhawks' ideal setup, as per Brandell, involves giving Bedard the C and Kane as an alternate captain, allowing the team to have both their current leader and an experienced voice from their championship past.