Avalanche Rookie Poised For Unprecedented NHL Debut On Saturday
Connor Bedard, the consensus No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is set to make his NHL debut on Saturday when the Colorado Avalanche host the Columbus Blue Jackets.
A generational talent
Bedard is considered one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory. The 17-year-old centerman has been dominant at every level he has played, including the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he has scored 124 goals and 268 points in 127 games.
Unprecedented opportunity
Bedard's debut will be unprecedented for several reasons. First, he will be the youngest player to ever play in an NHL game since Connor McDavid in 2015. Second, he will be the first player to ever be drafted first overall and make his NHL debut in the same season.
High expectations
Expectations are high for Bedard, who is expected to be a major contributor to the Avalanche's success this season. The Avalanche are one of the favorites to win the Stanley Cup this year, and Bedard's addition to the lineup could make them even more difficult to beat.
A bright future
Bedard's debut is a sign of things to come for the Avalanche. The team has a young and talented roster, and Bedard is just one of several players who could help lead them to a championship in the years to come.