Veteran Nick Foligno praises Connor Bedard's maturity as Chicago Blackhawks stun Montreal Canadiens

Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno didn't mince words about his team's captivating 4-3 shootout win over the Montreal Canadiens — a victory not just against odds, but under playoff-level pressure within one of the most historic hockey buildings. The veteran praised Connor Bedard and the rest of the team for showing resilience and composure in an emotionally charged game with playoff ramifications and in front of a wild home crowd.


The 2024-25 season has not been easy street for the Chicago Blackhawks, but their win over the Montreal Canadiens brought a valuable big spot of light into all the rebuild darkness. To have a rebuilding squad steal the road victory in Montreal and spoil the Canadiens' playoff party was a huge confidence booster for a team unable to find its success. More importantly, it was a statement game for prospects Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, the development of whom is at the core of the franchise's future.
With over 21,000 Montreal Canadiens loyalists eager to witness their team clinch a long-awaited Stanley Cup Playoffs berth, the odds were firmly against the Chicago Blackhawks. The crowd was deafening and ruthless — and yet, the visitors held strong.
From the opening puck drop, the Canadiens were looking for a dream: their return to the playoffs since the 2020-21 season. Connor Bedard was as calm and cool as an old pro, and Frank Nazar had the best game of the evening, scoring once, assisting once, and winning the shootout with the game-winning score. The loss stung particularly for the Montreal Canadiens, who had so much to gain but were left grasping. Their playoff hopes now hang in the balance for at least one more day.
Where the Chicago Blackhawks are short on experience and polish, they are making up for it with grit and chemistry. Connor Bedard is still developing as the franchise face, while other young players— such as Frank Nazar and Lukas Reichel— are breaking out in big moments.
Following the game, Nazar commented on what it was like to play in such a tense environment. “If that’s what playoff hockey is going to sound like, I’m really excited for that in the future,” he said.
Also read: Connor Bedard’s rise to the Calder memorial trophy
With just one game left in the season, the Chicago Blackhawks are not going to be altering their standing in the standings, but this win is significant beyond the box score.