Connor Bedard drafted by Chicago Blackhawks despite Wayne Gretzky’s warning

The controversy surrounding Connor Bedard's potential selection by the Chicago Blackhawks in the wake of the team's handling of a sexual assault scandal

Connor Bedard drafted by Chicago Blackhawks despite Wayne Gretzky’s warning

Connor Bedard and Wayne Gretzky ( Image via NHL )

Connor Bedard, a young hockey prodigy with exceptional status in the WHL, has been causing a stir in the sports world. After a stellar performance for West Van Academy Prep’s U18 team in the CSSHL, he’s now headed to Chicago. But this decision has sparked controversy due to the team’s handling of a sexual assault scandal involving a former player and coach.

On Monday night, the Chicago Blackhawks emerged victorious in the Connor Bedard sweepstakes. They secured the first overall pick in the upcoming draft with 11.5% odds. This victory has ignited anger among fans who criticize the NHL for rewarding a team facing scrutiny over its handling of sexual assault allegations against former team coach Brad Aldrich.

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CBC published an article questioning if Chicago’s NHL team should have been given the first draft pick after its handling of the sex assault scandal. The article cited comments made by Wayne Gretzky last year, suggesting parents should be concerned about their young sons’ safety if drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks. This article has further fuelled the controversy surrounding Bedard’s potential selection by the team.

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Wayne Gretzky’s warning to Connor Bedard about chicago

Connor Bedard and Wayne Gretzky
Connor Bedard and Wayne Gretzky ( Image via NHL )

As the Chicago Blackhawks controversy grows, Wayne Gretzky’s warning to Connor Bedard about the team has resurfaced. Last year, after the sexual assault scandal involving former player Kyle Beach and coach Brad Aldrich came to light, Gretzky suggested parents should be concerned about their sons’ safety if drafted by the Blackhawks.

Now, as Bedard prepares for his NHL career, his potential selection by Chicago has reignited the debate. Some argue Bedard shouldn’t be penalized for the team’s actions while others believe his safety and well-being should be top priority. It remains to be seen how Bedard will respond to Gretzky’s warning and whether he’ll choose to play for the Blackhawks or pursue other options.

The Chicago Blackhawks’ handling of the sexual assault scandal involving former player Kyle Beach and coach Brad Aldrich continues to generate debate and anger. Connor Bedard’s potential selection by the team as the first overall pick in the upcoming draft has added fuel to the fire. According to hockeyfeed, with Wayne Gretzky’s warning about the team’s reputation, it remains to be seen how this will all play out in the coming weeks and months.

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