As the new NHL season approaches, TSN Hockey has released its highly anticipated Top 50 players list, giving fans a glimpse of the standout performers to watch for in the upcoming campaign. Today, we are excited to unveil the rankings for players ranked from 40th to 31st.
Connor Bedard, the young phenom who made waves in the league last season, has proven that he belongs among the game’s elite. The first overall pick in the 2023 draft, Bedard lived up to the hype as one of the most promising prospects in recent memory. With a standout performance of 22 goals and 61 points in his rookie year, the 18-year-old sensation took home the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie.
However, Bedard faced some adversity throughout the season, including a 14-game absence due to a fractured jaw from a hit by Brendan Smith of the New Jersey Devils. Despite the challenges, Bedard remained resilient and determined to make his mark in the NHL.
Starting last season at the No. 48 spot on our list, Bedard has expressed his confidence and readiness for the upcoming year. “I feel more ready to come [to training camp this season],” Bedard shared with NHL.com. “The excitement was there last year, but I think I just feel more relaxed.”
With a revamped supporting cast that includes seasoned veterans like Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen, Pat Maroon, and Craig Smith, Bedard is poised to elevate his game to new heights in the coming season. The young centre’s combination of skill, speed, and hockey IQ make him a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
As Bedard prepares to embark on his sophomore season in the NHL, all eyes will be on him to see if he can continue to shine and solidify his spot among the league’s top players. Stay tuned for more updates and player rankings as TSN Hockey counts down to the full reveal special on Friday.
