Connor Bedard makes his feelings known on playing at Wrigley Field for 2025 NHL Winter Classic

Connor Bedard spoke about his excitement for playing in the 2025 NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field on Tuesday. Talking to the media in the locker room following Monday's practice, the 19-year-old, who was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL draft by the Chicago Blackhawks, said:

"Not really the attention. That doesn't change a thing. I mean, a lot of attention (I got), when I came into the league and stuff so. But I think just, like you said, playing on a bigger stage and knowing maybe there's more eyeballs, but when you're playing the game, you're not thinking about that.

"For me, it's just about, you know, the cool part, playing outside, playing it regularly here, and getting that different experience. That's what, what excites me. It's not really about, you know, maybe more people tuning in. But it's obviously great for us, more people in the crowd. You know, it's gonna be, gonna be exciting atmosphere. So that's always fun." (5:30)

Connor Bedard is used to being in the spotlight. He represented Canada at the World Juniors, winning gold in 2022 and 2023. He was also named MVP in 2023. Despite this, Bedard sees the Winter Classic as a unique opportunity.

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Connor Bedard admires the history of Wrigley Field

The Winter Classic game against the St. Louis Blues will be Connor Bedard's first major NHL outdoor event. Bedard is excited to play in front of a large crowd and also enjoys the history of Wrigley Field, the second-oldest ballpark in the majors:

"I think the history, obviously, it's an old, older building, and, I find that stuff really cool, kind of sports history or whatever. So it's a great, great spot. I got to tour a little bit, and go around the room and stuff." (6:22)

This season, Bedard leads the Blackhawks with 32 points in 37 games. He has been playing well and is on a four-game point streak.

"But it's super cool. You know, it's something not everyone gets to experience," Bedard added. "So it's just, you know, we're grateful to be chosen to play in this game. And yeah, it's one of the coolest experiences of my life so far. And obviously, the game hasn't even started yet, so I look forward to." (6:58)

The 2025 Winter Classic is less than 24 hours away and Connor Bedard along with Blackhawks is ready to face the St. Louis Blues.