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One crucial aspect in Connor Bedard's game could cross him off Team Canada's Olympic roster
Photo credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Connor Bedard could face one obstacle towards making Team Canada's 2026 Olympic roster, and for the Blackhawks superstar, it's a lack of games played in the NHL.
While Connor Bedard might seem like a shoe-in to the Team Canada Olympic roster to us, management might see otherwise.
The former 60+ point forward and Calder Trophy winner seems like he was dropped from heaven into the 1st OA selection in 2023.
But for Don Sweeney, Team Canada's Olympic general manager, the issues might not be his lack of skills or size.
The former 1st-round pick and Calder Trophy winner was invited to Team Canada's training camp this August with Sidney Crosby and 40 other players.
What's Stopping Team Canada from Adding Connor Bedard to the Olympic Roster?
There are two months before the final rosters will be announced for Team Canada, and the front office remains nervous about the prospects of adding Macklin Celebrini, Connor Bedard, or Matthew Schaefer to the Olympic roster.
«What's the biggest game they've ever played? That's what I think they're weighing.» Friedman said. «I believe that Canada is nervous with these three guys [and] having them in a big game. Because they haven't played at the senior level games like that.»
Connor Bedard has played a total of 168 games in the NHL, and even with a Calder Trophy to his name, he hasn't seen playoff hockey in the NHL yet.
That could be one of the many factors that give GM Don Sweeney some pause when it comes to adding Bedard to the prestigious roster.
He has competition in the leader of points scored in the NHL, Macklin Celebrini, too.
Though Bedard has two gold medals won in World Junior Championships, it's not the ideal resume, but it could work in his favor.
«It's not Bedard's fault he doesn't have a lot of resume in the NHL. But I do think for Team Canada, that's a thing.»
The 1 OA pick in 2023 never escapes questions about his desire to suit up for Canada in the next Olympic Games and savors the chance to.
All that matters now is whether or not he can convince Team Canada's management to select him.
Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
16 HOURS AGO | 78 ANSWERS One crucial aspect in Connor Bedard's game could cross him off Team Canada's Olympic roster Will Center Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks make it to the Olympic Roster for Team Canada this season, or in 2030? | ||
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