Connor Bedard states “I’m my own person” after getting compared with NHL star Connor McDavid following draft pick

Connor Bedard, the No. 1 draft pick by Chicago Blackhawks talked about how he wants to stay in the moment rather than acting as a hot-shot prior 2023-24 regular season. He’s been hyped up even before his NHL pick due to his extraordinary talent.

While being tagged as a generational player, and a young phenom, the 18-year-old has drawn comparisons to NHL stars Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, and Auston Matthews. Despite all the hype, he stated how he wants to reach their level one day, rather than losing himself in NHL stardom.

During an interview, Bedard said, “Yeah it’s pretty cool to hear that but I mean I don’t pay attention to it all. I mean I’m my own person. I’m my own player and you know I think for me I’m gonna carve my own path”

“…and hopefully I’m that good or half that good one day. We’ll see what happens…I’m not comparing myself to other people.” Bedard may have his debut during the regular season. He stated he’s excited to face his idol Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby.

Related: Who is Connor Bedard? How did Regina Pats captain become center figure of 2023 NHL Draft?

Connor Bedard states he idolizes NHL star, Sidney Crosby

Central Scouting director Dan Marr said that Connor Bedard may be the guy who’ll follow in Connor McDavid’s footsteps following his NHL debut. After McDavid’s 2015 draft pick, he was named as a generational player while being constantly compared to the Penguins ‘The Next One’.

Bedard’s extraordinary ability to shoot, adapt, and skate has made Marr comment “It’s just the next generation. Connor McDavid started that trend, and Connor Bedard is going to lead it into the next trend.” Bedard’s days in Regina Pats and his participation on the international stage boosted his performance to greater heights.

Pats coach John Paddock stated “that’s quite a high ceiling” when asked about Bedard’s performance getting compared with McDavid and Crosby. Some even stated that Bedard’s athleticism is also comparable to Auston Matthews. As of now, Bedard is not thinking of crossing any NHL stars but is rather focused on his debut game.

He admitted Crosby being his idol and is excited to face him on the same rink. Not only Bedard but also McDavid once stated that he was inspired by Crosby. For most young hockey stars Crosby becomes the mark they choose to follow.

Crosby’s performance was even complimented by NHL legend Wayne Gretzky. Now with the contract renewal and draft season nearing its end, fans are excited to begin the regular season games. With new players joining each team, it’ll be interesting to see them wage war for the 2024 Stanley Cup race.

In case you missed:

Who is Connor Bedard’s sister gymnast Madisen Bedard?

Who are Connor Bedard’s parents, Melanie Bedard and Tom Bedard?

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