Connor Bedard is the most highly touted prospect in the NHL since another Connor was drafted nearly eight seasons ago. The draft turned out pretty well for the Edmonton Oilers, who turned out to be the perfect fit for Connor McDavid to showcase his elite talent.
The Oilers won the NHL Draft Lottery that season, leap-frogging the Toronto Maple Leafs and Arizona Coyotes.
That leap-frogging will certainly happen again this season, but which team will it happen to? And which team is best for the player, that will showcase Bedard’s elite talent en route to years of success?
These three teams would be perfect fits for Connor Bedard
#1 Columbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets could be an ideal fit for Connor Bedard, the highly-touted prospect who is expected to be a top pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. The Blue Jackets have a reputation for developing young players, and their roster is filled with talented young prospects.
With their focus on player development, Bedard would have the opportunity to grow and refine his game in a supportive and structured environment.
He would even have the perfect wingmate straightaway with Johnny Gaudreau. Additionally, Columbus is a market with a passionate and engaged fan base, which could provide Bedard with the necessary support and motivation to succeed in the NHL.
#2 Anaheim Ducks
Connor Bedard AND Trevor Zegras? Scary for years. The Anaheim Ducks could also be a perfect fit for Connor Bedard, with a long history of successfully developing young prospects into NHL stars.
The Ducks have a strong foundation of veteran leadership and a commitment to building through the draft, making them an ideal environment for a young player like Bedard to grow and thrive.
Additionally, Anaheim is a hockey-mad city with a loyal fanbase, which could provide him with the support and encouragement he needs to succeed at the highest level. With their focus on player development and a culture of winning, the Ducks could be an excellent destination for Bedard in his NHL career.
#3 Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens could also be an ideal team for Connor Bedard, with a storied history of success and a passionate fanbase that expects nothing less than excellence. Bedard would have the opportunity to play alongside talented and experienced players who can help guide him through the rigors of the NHL.
Additionally, the Canadiens' development program is well-regarded for producing top-tier prospects, and has some of the best in the league with Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
Their emphasis on building from within could provide Connor Bedard with the necessary support and resources to reach his full potential. With their focus on winning and a rich hockey culture, the Canadiens could be an excellent fit for Bedard in his NHL career.