But it seems that skill set and hockey IQ may win out on a few players if their size is not up to the level that people think it should be.
It seems to be the case with Connor Bedard. He is slated to be selected first overall in this year's draft with the Chicago Blackhawks. The Hawks, are currently in a rebuilding phase where they have essentially gutted the entire offensive line of talent and positioned themselves to select Bedard.
During the NHL Combine this year, the soon-to-be superstar of the NHL was measured for his height and came in at a surprisingly low number for the position he's about to hold.
To be fair, many players of his age at 17 will continue to grow, develop and mature well after their draft time. It's certainly possible that he could become a much larger centreman, only time will tell.
There's also the adage that he may get hurt a lot because he's so small for a centerman in the NHL, but as Mitch Marner and other players of smaller size have shown is that their speed and skill set will prevent them from getting hit often.
The NHL draft will in Nashville on June 28th and 29th.
POLL | ||
JUIN 12 | 722 ANSWERS A surprising height was measured for Connor Bedard. Will Bedard be better than Cole Caulfield? | ||
Yes | 657 | 91 % |
No | 65 | 9 % |
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