Connor Bedard of the <a href='https://www.nhl.com/blackhawks/' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>Blackhawks</a> isn't making many friends around the league lately, as many are calling him cocky as he attempted the Michigan last night. Man, the NHL Utah debut of Connor Bedard with the Chicago Blackhawks was really the perfect moment for him finally to hit the league running. This game against Utah was one for the history books in a state where regular-season hockey is a novelty. One did get treated to a pretty thrilling contest as a magnificent performance by Bedard was made available, coupled with a rugged battle between the two teams. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/CRoumeliotis/status/1843872626995016092'> </a></blockquote></div> But despite a very brave fight, the Blackhawks lost their first game to Utah, which took two points after its very first NHL game. The game was not, however, without its moments of drama. One of the most critical moments in the match was when Bedard, down by just one goal in the third period, made an astonishing play that wowed the fans and analysts alike. <a href='https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/utahs-first-game-features-connor-121214373.html' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>He nearly pulled off the Michigan</a>, an audacious lacrosse-style goal from behind the net, that nearly tied the score in one of the more tense moments of the game. That definitely rubbed some fans and players the wrong way, and he's been facing some major backlash online. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/b_launders/status/1843882896505090554'> </a></blockquote></div> <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/WildAboutPuck/status/1843893719763726778'> </a></blockquote></div> Pinned by three defenders in front of the net, Bedard had very limited options, but his instincts took over. Trying to catch the opposition off guard, he attempted the Michigan, coming tantalizingly close to evening things up. Though he missed by a hair, the attempt was a show of creativity and risk-taking even as a highly-scrutinized rookie; he was showing quick thinking and on-ice awareness throughout the night. Utah held off Chicago's late surge, and though Bedard did have two points, it wasn't enough to win the game. That Bedard had the capability to almost pull such a highlight-reel play on opening night is about all that needs to be said <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl-team/chicago-blackhawks/connor-bedard-reunites-with-bodyguard-on-blackhawks' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>about his budding status</a> as one of the league's brightest young stars. The speed, vision, and fearlessness were there on full display, and there's little doubt he will be Chicago's go-to player as the season unfolds. Other players are starting to take notice, and he is definitely going to be a target on the ice, especially if he keeps trying these flashy plays. Connor Bedard's season debut had all the makings of <a href='https://www.hockeylatest.com/nhl-team/chicago-blackhawks/chicago-blackhawks-name-new-captain-connor-bedard-will-have-to-wait-before-wearing-the-c' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>a great future in the NHL</a>. Although the Michigan attempt didn't materialize this time, surely it won't be his last. As defenders scramble to contain him and goalies adjust to his dynamic play, Bedard's boldness will continue to make him a player to watch, setting the stage for what could be a phenomenal career. Fans have surely taken notice online too!