With the 4 Nations Face-Off rapidly approaching, NHL fans are wondering whether Connor Bedard or any of his Chicago Blackhawks teammates are participating.

Donato erupted for a career-high four points in the Hawks' 6-2 win Friday, simultaneously raising his trade value and making a stronger case for him to stay in Chicago past this season.

Chicago Blackhawks star forward Connor Bedard addressed recent criticism from Mark Messier and Paul Bissonnette, making it clear that outside opinions don’t concern him.

The Chicago Blackhawks are having another year of struggles and disappointments. They are sitting in last place in the Central Division with a record of 16-31-6. On top of their struggles as a team, they have a 19-year-old centre going through a slump.

For all of Bedard's talent and production, he has found himself the target for some scathing criticism over the past week.

He impacts in such a big way, more than just points or scoresheet stats,” defenseman Connor Murphy said. “And just a leader in general for us, so it sucks to see him go down. You can see the way guys react to him.

Connor Bedard scores on the power play for the Blackhawks in the second period.