Bedard earns his first NHL accolade.

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Ryan Hall
June 28, 2023 (1:14)

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Tonight was the NHL Awards, a storied tradition that has been going on for many years. The awards are given out and voted on by the media and central scouting

These accolades are highly touted amongst the NHL stars as they are judged on how many trophies they can get over and above the Stanley Cup they hope to win as their NHL careers continue to go on.

Connor Bedard, the soon-to-be Chicago Blackhawks received his first award tonight. He received the E.J. Maguire Award of Excellence awarded annually by the draft prospect who best exemplifies the commitment to excellence through strength of character, competitiveness and athleticism.

Bedard was a household name already mentioned several years ago like Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers. Scouts and NHL general managers were watching this young man well before being slated to be drafted. His skill set, hockey IQ, general demeanour, professionalism and pure talent that is will make any general manager in the NHL want to draft him.

During his 2022-2023 season with the Regina Pats and the WHL, his numbers were unheard of. He played 57 games, scoring 71 goals along with 72 assists for 143 points. He held 62 penalty minutes and was a + 39.

During his seven games in the playoffs, he scored ten goals with 10 assists for 20 points. In the world junior under 20 championships, he won a gold medal for Canada.

It's safe to say that he deserves this award. His combined results being off the charts, the Blackhawks are primed and ready to draft this young man and ready to build their new offence around him.