2023-07-01 02:14:00
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Many people reached out to Connor Bedard following he was officially selected by the Chicago Blackhawks with the No. 1 pick in the NHL Draft.
However, there is one in particular that stood out.
“I got a text from Sidney Crosby, so it was really cool, Bedard said. He was my favorite player growing up and obviously one of the best of all time, so I was pretty excited. »
If all goes according to plan for Bedard and the Blackhawks, the youngster will make his NHL debut once morest Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 10. The road to the opening game for Bedard begins with the team’s development camp which begins this weekend.
The talented striker made it clear on Friday that he wasn’t looking too far ahead.
“It’s been a big summer for me. I will try to make the team and play in the league, of course, Bedard said. Obviously, the game is very fast. Everyone is bigger, stronger. »
Bedard, who turns 18 next month, is the crown jewel of an 11-man roster for Chicago that also includes American Oliver Moore, another first-round pick known for his speed. Moore is expected to play college hockey for Minnesota next year.
Bedard is the second first overall pick in franchise history, adding his name to Patrick Kane in 2007. Kane helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
“Obviously you know the history of this organization and the importance of winning,” Bedard said as he sat next to Moore at a table with four other team draft picks. We’re going to do everything we can to improve and try to win games and ultimately win a Stanley Cup. This is the main objective. »
Considered a generational talent, compared to his idol Crosby and Edmonton Oilers star Connor McDavid, Bedard had 71 goals and 72 assists in 57 games with the Regina Pats of the WHL last season. He was also the tournament MVP when Canada won gold at the World Junior Hockey Championship in January.
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