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n the high-stakes world of hockey card investing, National Hockey Card Day (NHCD) releases are the hobby's Black Friday—limited-run exclusives that reward early birds with instant scarcity. Upper Deck's 2023-24 NHCD set dropped on October 14, 2023, as a 32-card event-only product, and Connor Bedard's #31 rookie stands as its undisputed crown jewel. This isn't just a card; it's Bedard's official NHCD debut, capturing the #1 overall pick's electric arrival in Chicago. Graded KSA 9.5 NGM (Near Gem Mint), this slabbed stunner offers elite eye appeal at an accessible price point, blending rookie hype with proven market momentum. For Blackhawks believers, Bedard supercollectors, or anyone stacking modern rookies, this is a no-brainer addition—affordable entry to a generational talent's ascent. Let's break it down.

Card Description

• Player & Design: Spotlights Connor Bedard, the 5'10" sniper from North Vancouver, drafted first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2023 amid "next McDavid" buzz. The front delivers a dynamic action shot—Bedard in his Blackhawks red, mid-deke with that lethal wrist shot cocked—against a sleek black border with gold accents and the NHCD logo. Measuring the standard 2.5" x 3.5", it's stamped "ROOKIE" in bold white, with crisp team scripting and a subtle foil sheen that screams premium event product. The back packs a stat snapshot (e.g., his WHL dominance: 71 goals, 143 points in 57 games with Regina) and bio highlights, like his World Juniors heroics. This #31 is the base version from a set that flew off shelves at participating hobby shops—pure, unadulterated rookie fire.
• Condition & Grading: Encapsulated and graded KSA 9.5 NGM by KSA Grading (a sharp, cost-effective rival to PSA/BGS, prioritizing surface quality and centering). This elite score signals near-flawless attributes: 65/35 or better centering, gem-like corners with zero dings, pristine edges, and a glossy finish untouched by print flaws or scratches. NGM status elevates it above standard Mint, making it a display kingpin—ideal for top-loaders or slabs—while raw copies risk the handling hazards of event grabs.
• Rarity & Parallels: From a print run capped for NHCD's one-day frenzy (no hobby mass-production here), base #31s are inherently scarce, but high-grades like this are unicorns (KSA pop under 300 for 9.5+). Parallels include Rainbow Foil (#/25) and Black (#/10) versions that spike to $500+, positioning the base as a value-packed foundation for rainbows.

Why Buy This Card for Your Collection?

• Player Potential on Ice: Bedard isn't hype—he's delivery. In his 2023-24 rookie splash, he led all NHL freshmen with 61 points (22 goals, 39 assists) in 68 games, snagging Calder Trophy buzz despite a broken jaw sidelining him for weeks. Fast-forward to October 2025: At 20, he's the Blackhawks' cornerstone, posting 0.8+ points per game in early 2024-25 action (projected 70-80 points full-season) with elite speed, vision, and a rocket slapshot that's already netted highlight-reel goals. Comparisons to Crosby endure—Bedard's averaging 18+ minutes, captaining the power play, and mentoring prospects like Frank Nazar. As Chicago rebuilds around him (hello, 2024 #1 pick Celebrini trade rumors), expect All-Star nods by 2026 and franchise savior status. This card freezes his "it" factor at launch—own the origin story.
• Investment Upside: Bedard rookies have rocketed 30-50% YOY since 2023, outpacing the hobby's rookie surge amid his on-ice dominance. KSA's slab appeal crosses well to PSA upgrades, and NHCD's cult status shields it from overprint dilution—smart buy in a market chasing his autos/relics ($1K+ for low-# Future Watch).
• Collection Fit: A must for Bedard PCs, Blackhawks rebuild sets, or NHCD completists—pair it with his Young Guns or SP Authentic Future Watch for a 2023-24 rookie arc. Its compact event vibe suits binders or acrylic cases, and the KSA holder adds modern slab cred without PSA wait times. In an era of Bedard overload, this offers targeted value: hype for new collectors, scarcity for veterans building around "the next one."
• Market Snapshot: As of October 2025, no bubble, just upward trajectory.

Lock in this KSA 9.5 NGM Bedard NHCD #31 for $150-200, and you're not just collecting—you're betting on hockey's brightest star and a card that's already a hobby staple. Blackhawks rising! 🦅