Taylor Hall Says Media Needs to Back Off of Connor Bedard
PUBLICATION
TJ Tucker
October 16, 2023 (10:45)
Just let the kid play. That's the gist of the message from Taylor Hall of the Chicago Blackhawks when it comes to teammate Connor Bedard.
Bedard, of course, was the first overall pick in the latest NHL draft, and came with a ton of hype as the league's next generational talent. That had led to a flood of media attention and request for interviews. Asked about it, Hall said he feels Bedard handles very well, but shouldn't have to.
"He does way too many in-game interviews and stuff. I think that they just need to find a way to just let him play. But, I think he understands his role as a major ambassador for the game of hockey and he handles it so well."
Hall added that Bedard isn't the type to say he would prefer less media attention.
"It can be a little much for him at times. He doesn't say that, but it feels like it is."
While he didn't come with the hype of Bedard, Hall himself is a former first-overall pick and knows the pressure that comes with being in that role.
POLL |
Should Media back off of Bedard? |
No, it comes with the territory | 27 | 21.8 % |
Yes, just let him play | 94 | 75.8 % |
Not sure | 3 | 2.4 % |
List of polls |
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