Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard avoids a disaster with latest off-season career decision

Connor Bedard was widely criticized this season, but he still accomplished a lot in the second season of his NHL career. In 82 games, he scored 67 points, including 23 goals, with a struggling team.

Bedard, who'll turn 20 in the summer, continues to develop, and the coming off-season could be crucial for his development.

He recently made a decision that has an impact on his off-season, and a massive turn of events shows that he possibly avoided a massive disaster.

During his end-of-season media availability, Bedard confirmed that he wouldn't represent Canada at the ongoing World Championship, alongside Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Marc-André Fleury.

Going to the Worlds can be a valuable experience for players, especially when there's an opportunity to compete alongside the country's best players.

However, it comes with risks.

Bedard's teammate Lukas Reichel decided to go to the Worlds to represent Germany, but an injury forced him to forfeit, obviously affecting his summer training:

This is exactly why Bedard didn't go to the Worlds. The risks were too high, and after watching Reichel get injured, the 2023 first overall pick is likely glad he stayed home.

Reichel scored four points in three games with Team Germany, showing that he's ready to have an impact on his team during the big moments. Last season, the 22-year-old forward scored 22 points in 70 games with the Blackhawks, but like most of his teammates, he will be looking to bounce back next season.

Details on his injury are yet to come. Stay tuned for updates.