With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, Connor Bedard has one month left to make his case to represent Team Canada, a roster arguably harder to crack than any in international hockey. While Bedard’s electric play this season has vaulted him into the national conversation, competition for forward spots is fierce.
Even so, his recent surge in production has turned heads across the hockey world and earned him strong backing from his teammates. Whether he ultimately makes the cut remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Bedard is fighting his way into the discussion, not riding his name or draft status.
Connor Bedard stays humble as his Olympic chances rise
Oct 19, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) looks to pass the puck against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Connor Bedard understands the magnitude of the opportunity in front of him, but he also knows Team Canada’s talent pool is deeper than ever. Speaking before the Blackhawks’ tough 7–1 loss to Anaheim, he kept things grounded:
“Obviously I want to be there… but there are so many great players in Canada, they could make two teams.”
Despite the humility, Bedard’s numbers tell their own story. Over his last 21 games, he has recorded an eye-popping 16 goals and 17 assists, a run that’s nearly impossible for Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong to ignore. His offensive creativity, finishing ability, and hockey IQ make him a dynamic option, especially for a team seeking both skill and youthful energy.
But Bedard isn’t the only young star making noise. Macklin Celebrini has been sensational in San Jose. Tom Wilson brings a physical edge many believe Canada needs. Nick Suzuki offers elite two-way play. With established names already competing for spots, no one is guaranteed a place, not even a generational scorer like Bedard.
Still, Bedard’s teammates believe he belongs on the Olympic stage.
Jason Dickinson praised him, saying:
“Connor has put himself in the conversation… He has definitely raised his game. He has brought a level of intensity that is turning heads.”
Right now, Bedard’s chances sit around 50/50 as the New Year’s Eve roster deadline approaches. But if he continues producing at his current pace, he could force Canada’s hand.
Developing all-around: faceoffs, leadership, and scoring race
Dec 21, 2024; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) skates against the Calgary Flames during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
While Bedard is best known for his scoring, he’s quietly making major strides in another critical area, the faceoff circle. After winning under 40% of his draws early in his career, Bedard has pushed his percentage up to 48.1% this season. That growth is no accident.
“You see the pattern with young guys,” Bedard explained. “You keep practicing, keep getting used to the players you’re going against… I’m figuring out what works for me.”
Bedard admits he will still have off-nights but believes consistency is coming. The presence of Ryan Greene, another natural center, has helped relieve pressure. Greene’s ability to take clean draws or step in when Bedard gets tossed gives the duo flexibility, allowing Bedard to focus more on positioning and anticipation.
Meanwhile, Bedard’s offensive output continues to draw attention across the league, and even when he tries to avoid the NHL leaderboard, it finds him anyway.
“You just see it if you have a phone or Instagram,” he joked.
As of now, Bedard sits fourth in NHL scoring with 40 points, behind only Nathan MacKinnon (49), Macklin Celebrini (43), and Connor McDavid (42).
For a 20-year-old in his third NHL season, that’s remarkable. For a player pushing for an Olympic roster spot? It’s the strongest argument possible.
Connor Bedard may not know yet whether he’ll wear the Maple Leaf in Milan, but he has unquestionably earned consideration. His growth at both ends of the ice, maturity in interviews, improvement in the faceoff circle, and elite scoring numbers all point toward a player ready for the international spotlight. The decision now rests with Team Canada, but Bedard is doing everything in his power to make that decision difficult to ignore.
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