Connor Bedard's recent decision proves he's a special player who already understands what it takes to succeed
When the Chicago Blackhawks selected Connor Bedard 1st overall in the NHL Entry Draft they knew they drafted an exceptionally talented player. Bedard is easily the most hyped prospect since the Toronto Maple Leafs drafted Auston Matthews, and deservedly so.
Bedard has already proven that he's NHL ready from a talent perspective. Today, Bedard proved that he's NHL ready from a maturity perspective as well.
The Chicago Blackhawks are currently preparing for the beginning of their season, which will kick off with the annual prospects tournament. Unlike most of the other prospects at the event, Bedard has already made his NHL team for this season. Many assumed that Bedard would likely be held out of the tournament to keep him healthy.
So what makes Bedard different?
While most players would be happy to sit out and know there is an NHL pay cheque in their future, Bedard isn't most players. Instead Scott Powers and Michael Russo have both confirmed that Bedard has insisted on playing in the rookie tournament, because he just wants to be treated as "one of the guys".
Both @ByScottPowers & @RussoHockey confirming Connor Bedard will play at least 1 game at the Tom Kurvers rookie showcase against the Minnesota Wild
We all want Bedard to be protected, but he wants to be treated as "one of the guys," so that's why he's playing (IMO)
#Blackhawks
We all want Bedard to be protected, but he wants to be treated as "one of the guys," so that's why he's playing (IMO)
#Blackhawks
This is just another example of what makes Bedard special. Bedard knows that he isn't above anyone and obviously knows what true leadership looks like. This is the sort of attitude that will make Bedard successful beyond his wildest dreams at the NHL level.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 1 | 77 ANSWERS Connor Bedard's recent decision proves he's a special player who already understands what it takes to succeed Who will have the better career? | ||
| Auston Matthews | 17 | 22.1 % |
| Connor Bedard | 60 | 77.9 % |
| List of polls | ||