(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – It was no secret the Blackhawks would select Canadian hockey sensation Connor Bedard on Wednesday with the team’s No. 1 pick in the NHL Draft.
Nonetheless, the hundreds of fans who packed the Salt Shed concert venue on Chicago’s North Side for a viewing party erupted in cheers as the pick was formally announced.
“It’s a dream come true!” one fan said, echoing a sentiment shared by Blackhawks enthusiasts who have suffered through recent disappointing seasons after a series of Stanley Cup titles.
The Blackhawks are rebuilding, and Bedard – one of the most promising hockey players in years – is considered a major acquisition toward that end.
Bedard will wear No. 98 on his Blackhawks sweater. A huge line formed as the new merchandise became available, according to WBBM Newsradio’s Rick Gregg, who was covering the event.
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