A few months into his career, Connor Bedard has been lighting up the league. He took a short period to adapt to the league.
In 18 games with the Chicago Blackhawks, the rookie has scored 10 goals and contributed 7 assists for 17 points. Almost a point a game pace.
However, he has earned the respect of his competitors, including Toronto Maple Leafs Auston Matthews, whom the Blackhawks defeated today with a small effort, 4-3.
Bedard would earn an assist today, but what's even better is when someone like Matthews compliments your performance.
As a result of taking a beating from the Chicago Blackhawks, Matthews thinks Bedard is one of the top goal-scorers in the league.
Auston Matthews on Connor Bedard: "He's not just a pure goal scorer. He makes plays as well. I think he kind of does everything really well"
John Tavares: "Amazing how he's come in & been able to adapt so quickly"
Morgan Rielly: "Just the whole package" https://tsn.ca/nhl/video/leafs-set-to-take-on-the-whole-package-in-bedard-he-s-a-unique-player%7E2814278
As a result, Bedard has consistently proven himself among even the best peers in the league today, such as John Tavares.
How many more games until this competition between the two teams, turns into a rivalry?