Connor Bedard is the dream of the hockey world and Chris Chelios is no exception. As an ambassador for the Chicago Blackhawks, the former defenseman ensures that young forward Regina Pats’ name is on everyone’s lips in the windy city, just as it was in Montreal.
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When Chelios stopped by the Tournoi International de Hockey Pee-Wee de Québec on Sunday to meet fans there, Chelios answered the author of these lines’ question if he still follows the activities of the Montreal Canadiens, and the topic quickly diverted the young one Hope.
“I still follow Canadian activities because my best friend Reid Simpson is a recruiter for them and I spend a lot of time with him in Chicago. He keeps talking to me about their problems! They’re rebuilding like the Blackhawks. I see a lot of their games and you always hope to get out as soon as possible. That’s why you have to fish well. The big question now is who will draft Connor Bedard as he will be quite the player. »
Not disappointed to lose
It’s no secret that the Blackhawks have liquidated very important elements – including Kirby Dach – in recent months in order to give themselves the best possible shot at Bedard. A strategy Illinois hockey fans understand and support.
“This is a huge topic of discussion for us. I don’t think the fans are as frustrated as they usually are after a loss. As long as you finish last, you might as well finish last and have the best possible chance of drawing Bedard. I’m looking at Chicago, after I left they drafted Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Brent Seabrook, Duncan Keith and Corey Crawford. When you pick these types of players, you end up with a team that is aiming for the Stanley Cup. »
Good memories from Quebec
Chelios also reminisced about his time with the Canadiens and the rivalry with the Nordiques as he set foot in Quebec. Well, it happened on the other side, at the Colosseum, but still!
“I will always remember the fight in Montreal when Jean Hamel was hit by Louis Sleigher! Also my arguments with Dale Hunter. He always brought out the best in me! It was quite a rivalry. We didn’t seem to enjoy coming here and killing each other on the ice, but it was a good time. »