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Connor Bedard sounds discouraged about chances of making 2026 Team Canada Olympic roster
Photo credit: NHL.com
Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard didn't sound encouraged when discussing his chances to play for Canada at the Milan Olympics.
Canada will once again go for the gold medal when they play in the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics, which will be the 1st time since 2014 that NHL players will suit up for their respective countries in Olympic competition.
Included in the multiple names invited to Canada's Orientation Camp in late August in Calgary was Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard.
You can bet that the North Vancouver native would love a chance to suit up for his country in international play.
But he didn't sound like he believed that his chances of earning a roster spot were a slam dunk.
I would need to have a great start, kind of light it up a bit. But there's just so many great players in Canada. There's going to be guys that play great and don't make it. That's just how deep it is. I mean, obviously, you had the guys at 4 Nations, and they won, and you understand that.
I'm trying not to think about it. Just go out and play and try to play the best I can and see what happens. If I play great and don't make it, like I said, there's so many great players. It's not going to be something that I would take personal or anything, but it would be special to be there, for sure.
I'm trying not to think about it. Just go out and play and try to play the best I can and see what happens. If I play great and don't make it, like I said, there's so many great players. It's not going to be something that I would take personal or anything, but it would be special to be there, for sure.
Connor Bedard is entering his 3rd year in the NHL
The Blackhawks forward, who was taken with the 1st pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft is getting ready to enter his 3rd year in the NHL and will soon be eligible for a contract extension.
The Blackhawks anticipate taking a step forward this year with the addition of Andre Burakovsky from the Seattle Kraken, along with new coach Jeff Blashill, who is known for developing young talent.
Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 10 | 162 ANSWERS Connor Bedard sounds discouraged about chances of making 2026 Team Canada Olympic roster Will Connor Bedard be chosen to play for Canada? | ||
| Yes | 94 | 58 % |
| No | 68 | 42 % |
| List of polls | ||
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