"Not What I love to do" Connor Bedard shares an uncomfortable responsibility as an NHL player and gets honest

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Joshua Deeds
November 6, 2024 (6:07 PM)

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The NHL has had trouble reaching a new audience for quite some time. With players like Auston Matthews, Nick Suzuki, and now Connor Bedard this seems like it shouldn't be such an issue.

But the league is run by dinosaurs, and maybe they're learning? Prior to the start of the 2024-2025 NHL season, they gathered young players in the league for the "Gen-Z" commercial which is running hot during games.

The commercial features Jack Hughes, Sidney Crosby, and Connor McDavid as well. But the aspect of the spotlight should be exciting right?

Not exactly for the face of the Chicago Blackhawks franchise. Bedard feels like it's an obligation to do these for the league.

,q>"It was fine. It was in Vegas (during the player media tour), we were just going station to station. But it turned out really well, I think. People enjoyed it.

I think the NHL is doing a lot of stuff like that, trying to promote us off the ice, as well, a little bit. I think they did a good job," Bedard said."It's not fun, really. But it's part of it. It's not what I love to do. If I did, I'd be an actor. But I'm a hockey player. It's not my No. 1 thing, but it's fine."

While Bedard is considered a media darling by the league, as his presence has generated interest in the NHL from younger demographics, it seems he feels more at home on ice.

Compared to the camera, which is just part and parcel of being a sports star sometimes.

While we'll never see Bedard in music videos, or selling us shoes, or other merchandise that we see superstars from the NFL, or NBA do, it's another aspect of the job.

You're the product that Nike, CCM, or whatever brand you partner with is selling. His name, image, and likeness are what drives sales.

It's unsure whether Bedard will be in more TV ads, he's been seen in a Hyundai, Gatorade, and an NHL commercial. We're keeping count!