Bedard’s home opener with Blackhawks has excitement ‘off the charts’

There’s a tremendous amount of buzz surrounding the home opener, as it marks the Blackhawks’ (2-3-0) return to their home ice after a challenging five-game road trip to start the season. This is particularly exciting for Bedard, who recently expressed how eager he is for the game on Saturday.

“The home opener is going to be absolutely incredible,” said Bedard, who has already recorded three points (a goal and two assists) in the team’s first five games. “Even during the preseason games, the atmosphere in the arena was electrifying, and that was with only a portion of the seats sold. I’m really looking forward to experiencing a packed United Center. It’s going to be a special moment.”

Troy Murray, a seasoned member of Chicago’s radio broadcasts since 2006-07, noted that Bedard’s regular-season home debut will likely be reminiscent of Kane’s back in 2007. The level of excitement for Saturday’s game is off the charts, as evident by the ticket sales for the home opener.

“Last year, we came close to a sellout, but this time it’s a highly anticipated sellout. The anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding this game are truly immense. It’s not just about the existing fans who have supported the team through the years, but also about a new generation of fans. This marks the beginning of a new era, and people are excited to see what Bedard brings to the ice.”

“However, it’s important to acknowledge the immense pressure placed on an 18-year-old like Bedard. Yet, he has handled it remarkably well. The fans attending the opening game at the United Center will undoubtedly be brimming with anticipation. The energy in the building will be beyond words for those witnessing the Blackhawks’ new chapter.”

Darren Pang, who recently returned to Chicago as a Blackhawks announcer, started his broadcasting career in the 1990s. Bedard’s home debut evokes memories of another unforgettable night he had the privilege to broadcast.

“I had the opportunity to cover Mario Lemieux’s return in Pittsburgh after a multi-year absence,” Pang recalled, referring to the night when the Hall of Famer came out of retirement to play for the Pittsburgh Penguins against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Mellon Arena on Dec. 27, 2000.

“That first game at ‘The Igloo’ was truly remarkable. Everywhere you turned, everyone was talking about it. You could feel the excitement in the air. While Bedard’s situation is different, this is the closest I’ve come to experiencing a similar game on a personal broadcasting level.”

On Saturday, Bedard will undoubtedly enjoy the overwhelming support from the crowd. Additionally, he and the Blackhawks will have the advantage of having last change for the first time in the regular season.

“Last change is such a crucial aspect of the game,” added Pang. “Even a team as talented as Vegas will afford Chicago coach Luke Richardson some additional options, both in terms of offensive strategies and favorable matchups for Bedard.”

“Of course, he won’t catch a break right away as he’ll face Jack Eichel. But regardless, being able to make the last change will provide Luke with beneficial opportunities.”

Bedard is finally returning home, and Blackhawks fans have eagerly awaited this game since the start of the season. The anticipation leading up to Saturday’s match has been palpable.

“I think for many people, this game will serve as a form of catharsis,” said Punk. “In many ways, it’s a fresh start for us, especially with Bedard. He represents hope and potential.”

“Every aspect feels new and exciting, whether it’s behind the scenes, on the ice, or in the announcer’s booth. There’s a sense of anticipation and hope. Fans are going into Saturday’s game with the understanding that this is the beginning of a rebuild. We can build around this incredibly talented, dynamic, generational player, but it will take time. They need our support as much as anything else.”