Connor Bedard vs Connor McDavid? NHL expert points out one stark difference and takes his pick

NHL expert Craig Button has made a bold statement, choosing 17-year-old Connor Bedard over NHL superstar Connor McDavid. Button praised both players' performances this season but ultimately declared Bedard to be the more dominant of the two.

Button pointed out that McDavid's performance this season is reminiscent of the late 80s and early 90s, when Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux dominated the NHL. In comparison, no player in this century has displayed the level of domination that McDavid has shown.

"You look at what Connor McDavid has done this season in the NHL and what Connor Bedard has done in the WHL. Let’s make one thing clear. No player in this century in the NHL or Junior Hockey has done what either of these players have done."

However, when comparing Bedard to Gretzky, Button emphasized the youngster's impact at such a young age. Undrafted and only 17 years old, Bedard has made a significant impact in his first season in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Button noted that the last player to have such an impact at a young age was Wayne Gretzky in the 1977-78 season:

"What distinguishes McDavid and Bedard is the World Junior performance. Bedard dominated the World Junior as a 17-year-old, nobody was close to him. The MVP. Brilliant."

Connor Bedard's performance at the World Junior tournament further highlights his dominance. He was named the MVP of the tournament, where he showcased his exceptional skills against other top young players from around the world. The last player to achieve such a feat was Wayne Gretzky, who was the MVP in the 1978 World Junior tournament.

In contrast, Button pointed out that McDavid did not dominate the World Junior tournament in the same way. While McDavid is undoubtedly an elite NHL player, Bedard's achievements at a young age and dominance in the WHL and World Junior tournaments have made him stand out.

"McDavid didn’t dominate the World Junior tournament. So when you ask me Connor vs Connor? I am putting a stake in the ground and going for Bedard."

Button's statement has caused a stir in the hockey world, with many fans and experts debating his choice. However, Connor Bedard's talent and potential are undeniable. As an undrafted player, he has already shown that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

While it is still early in his career, Bedard's exceptional talent and dominant performances have already caught the attention of many in the hockey world. It remains to be seen if he can continue to excel and live up to the hype.

A look at Connor Bedard's run for 2023 NHL Entry Draft

Connor Bedard was granted exceptional status to play in the Western Hockey League, leading to speculation that he would be a high draft pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.

His skills were compared to those of Russian winger Matvei Michkov, who was also considered a top talent with the same draft eligibility. After both players appeared on their respective national teams in various tournaments, the media suggested a potential rivalry comparable to that of Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby.

However, Michkov's contract extension with his KHL club and geopolitical uncertainties from the Russo-Ukrainian War. It led to widespread predictions that Bedard would be the first draft pick.