Connor Bedard is still only in his third NHL season, but he is already showing strong leadership skills. On Tuesday, he let rookie Anton Frondell take the opening faceoff in his NHL debut — a heartwarming gesture that is now being praised by fans.
Connor Bedard was drafted first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft. Since his debut, he has continued to improve, developing into a true NHL superstar.
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Connor Bedard career stats
Bedard has increased his point total each season, going from 61 in 2023–24 to 67 in 2024–25, and he is now on pace for 79 points this season — despite missing 12 games earlier due to injury. He has firmly established himself as a cornerstone for the rebuilding Blackhawks.
Another highly touted young talent, Anton Frondell — drafted third overall in 2025 — made his NHL debut on Tuesday against the New York Islanders. And Bedard made sure it was a night to remember.
Anton Frondell NHL debut
Frondell was placed in the starting lineup alongside Bedard. With both players capable of playing center or wing, Bedard surprised the rookie with a thoughtful move. Just before the opening faceoff, Bedard skated over and asked Frondell if he wanted to take it.
“It came as a surprise, which was very cool. Too bad I lost the faceoff. But once the game started, I just tried to enjoy it all,” Frondell told Swedish outlet Expressen after the game. The Blackhawks won the game 4-3 and Anton Frondell even recorded an assist, and Bedard made sure to save the puck as a memory.
Praised by fans
Fans online have since praised Bedard for the way he welcomed the young Swede.
“Bedard is turning out to be more than a great player — he’s a leader,” one fan wrote on X.
“In the championship documentary, this moment will be cited as when the culture shifted for the better,” another jokingly added.
“Classy move by Connor Bedard. Great way to welcome Anton Frondell to the NHL,” a third fan wrote.
You can watch the moment below.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Anton Frondell
