The Chicago Blackhawks won their first three Stanley Cups in my lifetime over a three-year period starting with the 2009–10 season. The team fell on hard times recently, but there is new hope in the form of rookie Connor Bedard.

Since their last championship, the Hawks have compiled a mediocre win rate of 44 percent, including a low of 31 percent last season. Although dismal, last season positioned the Hawks to have the first pick in the NHL draft. The timing was perfect, as Bedard, then only 17, was one of the most heralded amateur players in recent years, possibly ever.

With much hype and anticipation, Bedard scored a goal in his second game, an away game in Boston. Saturday night, after five away games, Bedard and the Hawks finally had their home opener.

I arrived early as usual, but so did most of the capacity crowd. Bedard’s Chicago debut was the hottest ticket in town. He didn’t wait long to give the fans a thrill, as he scored just 90 seconds into the game. Unfortunately, the Hawks couldn’t keep the momentum going and fell to the Las Vegas Golden Knights 5–3. Although the fans were disappointed with the loss, we are very excited about the future of the team.

Before heading home, we stopped at Billy Goat Inn, a Chicago institution made more famous by a Saturday Night Live skit. Not surprisingly, it was also filled with hockey fans who excitedly raved about the future of the young phenom and the team. My friends opted for the famous “cheezborger,” but I opted for the delicious grilled cheese.

— John Wroblewski, online writer