In a recent press conference, the Chicago Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson called out Connor Bedard. Richardson's comments will affect the future of Connor Bedard's ice time.
Blackhawks Head Coach Calls Out Bedard
During a press conference, Luke Richardson was asked if Connor Bedard would get more playing time late in games. Richardson answered and simultaneously upset fans all across the NHL.
Asked Luke Richardson why not let Connor Bedard see every game situation:
Richardson: «I think he will see every situation — some of it will be from the bench.»
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Richardson has been criticized in recent weeks for sheltering Bedard too much. These comments will not quiet those complaints from Blackhawks fans. The areas that Richardson does not trust Bedard in specifically have been in the defensive end of the rink.
Bedard Needs To Take Big Strides Defensively
Connor Bedard is of course known as an all-world offensive talent. Many people knew if Bedard's game had a weakness, it was in the defensive zone. These deficiencies have led Bedard to lose ice time at the end of games.
With Luke Richardson not budging on allowing Bedard to show he can play in these scenarios he will need to show his improvements at other times. If Bedard can show improved defense early in games he could get more time late in crunch time.
For now, Bedard will have to watch late-game moments from the bench.
As Read On - House Of Hockey - Chicago Blackhawks Coach Fires Shots At Connor Bedard
Will Connor Bedard be trusted as a defensive center at any point in his career?
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