Connor Bedard proves he has what it takes to be the next Chicago Blackhawks captain in 5-2 win vs. Flames

"We had lost two guys (to injury) who wore letters with 'Fliggy' (Nick Foligno) and 'Dickey' (Jason Dickinson), so we needed someone, and ultimately, he earned it. He's earned that opportunity.

One of the things we talked about at the beginning of the year is making sure we earn things, that we're not entitled to success, we're not entitled to wear a letter, we're not entitled to any of that stuff.

And in his case, he's absolutely earned it. He's earned it, and when I told different people around the team today [Bedard would be an alternate captain], everybody said the same thing, it makes total sense and he's totally earned it.

He's earned it with his approach every day and how committed he's been to winning hockey."

"It's great, for sure. There have been a lot of great players who have a letter on their chest and it's a great honor and something I don't take lightly, and no one would take lightly. It's cool, for sure."

"The refs were way nicer to me today - way nicer. I didn't get kicked out of a draw for the first time in my career. I think you watch guys go over there, I always have something to say to the refs, so it was fun. It's good, little added responsibilities that you appreciate. It's obviously not a big thing, but it's good, I guess."