ESPN staff2 minute reading
John Boucigros joins SVP to share his expectations for Connor Bedard’s rookie season
NHL commentator John Busycross shares his predictions for Connor Bedard’s future in the NHL.
Welcome to the 2023 NHL Draft. From the first round no. Until you select 224, this page, Ryan S. This will be your portal to tracking every pick, including tips on team fit for the 32 players taken in the first round from Clark, Kristen Shilton and Greg Wyszynski.
Also: Prospect Rankings
Kevin Weekes joked
Draft week buzz
The Rise of Connor Bedard
Group: Regina (WHL) | Rank: NAS1
DOB: 07/17/05 | Ht: 5-9.75 | Wt: 185 | Shot: R
2022-23 Stats: GB: 57 | G: 71 | A: 72 | P: 143
How he fits in: There’s a reason it’s colloquially known as the “Bedard draft.” Bedard is considered a once-in-a-generation talent by many evaluators. He gives the rebuilding Blackhawks a playmaking core. The 17-year-old scored 71 goals and 143 points for the Regina Pats in the WHL this season. Why Bedard offers hope he can be the face of a new Blackhawks era as the club enters its first season without Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews for the first time since 2007. — Vyshinsky
Team: Örebro (Sweden) | Rank: INS1
DOB: 12/26/04 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 198 | Shot: L
2022-23 Stats: GB: 44 | G: 10 | A: 15 | P: 25
