As expected, Connor Bedard got off to a good start in the National Hockey League, but even before he was drafted, he had an idea of what kind of player he wanted to be.
Sportsnet network informant Elliotte Friedman recalled in his column on Wednesday that the 18-year-old said he was inspired by a certain player who is now a direct rival in the middle section.
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In an interview with former player Colby Armstrong, Bedard mentioned the name of Minnesota Wild forward Kirill Kaprizov. Even though one plays at center and the other on the wing, there are still similarities between their two styles.
“I watch a lot of hockey and try to break down the boys’ game and learn from it. Someone I mentioned is [Kaprizov]he said when asked to talk about a player who inspired him. If I had to choose one, it would probably be him. But it’s hard to choose just one.”
After learning of this flattering comparison, the Russian forward told the Wild that Bedard’s style was similar to his own. For him, it’s the way he shoots the puck that makes the difference. Before he arrived in the NHL, the Chicago Blackhawks’ first-round pick’s quick wrist shot already had an enviable reputation.
“The way he opens his hips on a breakaway and uses his hips when throwing,” Kaprizov explained briefly, according to Sportsnet.
The latter therefore encouraged Bedard to “play his way” and not stop at mistakes and ball losses. The British Columbian still has a lot to learn as he has picked up four points in seven games while maintaining a -4 lead.
Not surprisingly, Kaprizov leads the Wild with nine points in six games this season.