Connor Bedard reveals how Johnny Gaudreau directly impacted his career

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Axel Williams
September 12, 2024 (11:36)

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Connor Bedard is one of the best young superstars in the NHL, and headed into his sophomore season, the expectations are higher than ever.

Recently, however, Bedard was asked to reflect on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau. His death was a horrible tragedy that fans are still in disbelief over. The same sentiment can be found amongst NHL players who played with and against him. As for Bedard, he looked up to Gaudreau because of his size. As Bedard notes, Gaudreau inspired him to become the player he is now.

"I'm not a big guy. I'm one of the smaller players in the League," Bedard said. "Getting to watch someone like him and see him, I guess, dominate the Canucks especially when I was watching at home, he's up there. He's got no excuses. Why can't I do it? A lot of people will tell you that same story, but he motivated a lot of people. He was an inspiration."

The loss of Gaudreau has been absolutely awful for the NHL. It is unfathomable that such a tragedy could have happened to Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. They were both so young and still had so much to give.

Our heart goes out to Gaudreau's family and the entire NHL community during this horrible and difficult time.

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Source: NHL.com
Gaudreau recalled as 'great player, great person' by NHL players