Chicago Blackhawks rookie sensation Connor Bedard will don the maple leaf once again for his country.
Bedard has confirmed he will represent Canada at the upcoming 2024 IIHF World Championships in Czechia. The tournament begins Friday, May 10, 2024, and concludes Sunday, May 26th.
The 18-year-old phenom, who led all NHL rookies in goals, assists, and points this season, is set to continue his incredible year by suiting up for his country once again.
Connor Bedard confirms he will be playing for Team Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Championship. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/dyBTioyyqh
— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) April 20, 2024
“That’s something I’m pretty excited about, to get the opportunity to play,” Bedard said Saturday. “A year and a bit ago, I was playing for my country every couple of months (as a junior player). It’s been a while since I got that chance. I’m looking forward to that.”
Bedard is no stranger to donning the maple leaf, having already represented Canada at four junior tournaments, including back-to-back World Junior Championships in 2022 and 2023.
In those appearances, he set numerous records, including most career goals (17) and points (36) by a Canadian at the World Juniors
His dominant performance at the 2023 tournament, where he racked up a staggering 23 points in just seven games, helped lead Canada to its 20th gold medal.
Despite his individual success, Bedard remains humble and team-oriented. “I don’t wanna talk about myself right now, we’re not talking about me…I love this group I love this country,” he said after winning gold at the 2023 World Juniors.
Now, the North Vancouver native will have the opportunity to showcase his skills at the senior level. He joins a Team Canada World Championship roster that includes Dawson Mercer, Jared McCann, Owen Power, Brandon Tanev, and goalie Jordan Binnington.
Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson expressed his full support for Bedard’s decision to play in the World Championships. “If players can go and play some meaningful games, then I think that’s a great opportunity, especially the opportunity to represent someone’s country. It is a huge honor, a huge opportunity. And just a great experience.”
Speculation is already swirling about the potential of Bedard playing alongside Pittsburgh Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby, who has also been asked to join Team Canada for the tournament.
According to TSN insider Darren Dreger, Crosby is currently considering his invitation to the tournament. The thought of the two generational talents sharing the ice together is enough to make us giddy with excitement.
With Connor Bedard committed to representing Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Championships, this tournament just became a must-watch for Canadian (and Chicago) hockey fans.
