Connor Bedard Expected to Play for Team Canada at World Championships
Chicago Blackhawks rookie Connor Bedard is not expected to pass up the chance to play at the upcoming 2024 IIHF World Championships when Team Canada comes calling.
As recently reported on Insider Trading, Team Canada has reached out to Connor Bedard, and Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks. While no official answer has been given yet, Bedard is expected to say yes, and make his way to Czechia in May for the 2024 World Men's Hockey Championships.
It is Team Canada's plan to also reach out to Sidney Crosby if/when #LetsGoPens are eliminated from playoff contention."
As for Sidney Crosby, I'm certain Team Canada asks him to play every year when his schedule allows. However, he rarely joins Team Canada for the Worlds. He has taken part in the tournament twice: once in 2006, and against in 2015 where he won a gold medal.
The World Championships have suffered over the years when it comes to getting top players. It takes place during the NHL playoffs, meaning players still in it won't leave, and several players opt to take the time off instead. Because of that, ratings for the tournament, and interest as a whole, have suffered. However, having Connor Bedard, whose bubble helmet recently saved him from serious injury, could serve as a huge boost in eyes on the product. If they could convince Crosby to play alongside him, the 2024 World Championships would likely have more viewers than it's had in a long time.
| POLL | ||
Will you watch the World Championships if Connor Bedard joins Team Canada? | ||
| Yes | 82 | 43.2 % |
| No | 36 | 18.9 % |
| I will watch either way | 63 | 33.2 % |
| Not sure | 9 | 4.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
