Macklin Celebrini is making waves for Team Canada at the Winter Olympics, shining brightly as a young star on the ice. However, the absence of another potential standout, Connor Bedard, has left some fans scratching their heads.
Bedard, the Chicago Blackhawks' dynamic center, was in the mix for a spot on the roster. Despite his impressive credentials, he didn't make the final cut, leaving him to cheer on his teammates from afar.
So, why isn't Bedard competing in the Olympics? Canada opted for a roster filled with seasoned veterans, with Celebrini being a notable exception. Celebrini's standout performance in the 2025-26 season made him impossible to overlook, and he’s been proving his worth at the Games.
At just 20 years old, Bedard has already made a name for himself. He was the top pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, coming off a stellar stint with the Regina Pats. This season, he’s been impressive with 23 goals and 30 assists in 44 games for the Blackhawks.
However, Bedard's style is more offensive-focused, which may have influenced the decision. Team Canada needed versatility, and Nick Suzuki got the nod for his ability to play on the wing and contribute in multiple roles.
Another notable roster change involved Sam Bennett from the Panthers, who was brought in as an injury replacement for Anthony Cirelli.
While Bedard didn't make it this time, his future in international play looks bright. He has plenty of opportunities ahead to don the Canadian jersey on the Olympic stage.