The Calder Trophy may not be in the bag for Connor Bedard

It’s been a long time since we’ve seen an 18-year-old join the NHL’s elite (top of the top) in his first season with the pros.

Connor McDavid, who produced at a rate of 90 points over 82 games, was 10% below Sidney Crosby.

Naturally, Connor Bedard is expected to be the ideal candidate to challenge Crosby’s figure. In a very, very offensive NHL, 102 points seems very possible for one of the most anticipated talents in league history…

However, some observers are not convinced that the Calder Trophy is in the bag for Bedard.

Nothing is guaranteed for a young man who will be taking his first steps in a totally different kind of field hockey. Some are not even predicting a point per game for the first overall pick. Are we thinking too hard?

It’s true, however, that there will be plenty of competition for the Rookie of the Year title.

Logan Cooley, who was expected to remain in the NCAA for another year, has finally signed his entry-level contract with the Arizona Coyotes. He joins Adam Fantilli among the top offensive prospects who could challenge Bedard in his first NHL season.

In fact, at 19, Cooley is probably the second favorite in the race for the title. Since being drafted, his value has increased in the eyes of young player observers, and he too will be handed the keys to the franchise with the Arizona Coyotes.

Among defensemen, Luke Hughes and Brandt Clarke are also mentioned as candidates. However, we have to admit that they would both need an absolutely incredible season to compete with the forwards vying for the trophy.

There’s also talk of goaltender Devon Levi and even Leaf Matthew Knies.

But we’re not so sure…

For now, Bedard’ s odds against everyone else are interesting.

In a gust

– It’s all settled.

– Piette’s career path.

– New role for Rene Bourque.