Connor Bedard was careful not to curse it.

The 17-year-old sensation most likely had a sneaking suspicion of where his NHL career would start as soon as Chicago moved up two spots to win the May draft lottery.

As a sports-mad city that has seen greatness up close time and time again began to wait just over seven weeks for the arrival of its next star, Original Six fans quickly began snatching up jerseys with Bedard’s familiar No. 98 on the back.

Bedard remained focused throughout, dismissing questions about Chicago with the same accuracy that makes his opponents look foolish.

At last, he can focus on a fresh challenge in the Windy City.

Chicago acted as was predicted on Wednesday night.

With a lightning-fast shot and incredible skill, the five-foot-10, 185-pound center wreaked havoc on the Western Hockey League in 2022–23, scoring 143 points in 57 games for the Regina Pats.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling to be here with my family and friends and get to hear my name be called and experience that, especially with such a storied organization,” Bedard stated. “Very thankful [they] put their faith in me.”

In an incredible season that came to an end on the Bridgestone Arena stage, Bedard also won several individual awards and guided Canada to gold at the world junior hockey championship with a record-breaking performance.

Chicago general manager Kyle Davidson stated, “He wants to be great.” “Nothing is taken for granted by him. He just gets it; he’s humble.

The North Vancouver native is mentioned in the same sentence as former generational players like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. He joins a rebuilding team that recently parted ways with franchise legends and three-time Stanley Cup winners Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.

He described following in their footsteps as “incredible.” “That was when I was growing up when they were winning the Cups and going on their runs. You can see the Original Six and so much history being supported by Chicago as the United Center goes bonkers.”

Carlsson is second to the Ducks, while Fantilli is third to Columbus

The University of Michigan’s Adam Fantilli, a Nobleton, Ontario native and Bedard’s world junior teammate, was selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets at No. 3 ahead of Swedish center Leo Carlsson, selected by the Anaheim Ducks, who had the worst record in the league in 2022–2023.

When asked if he was shocked the Ducks passed on him, Fantilli responded, “A lot of phenomenal hockey players in this draft.” “Leo is an amazing hockey player. What a wonderful child he is.

“I’m pumped for him.”

The fourth pick went to the San Jose Sharks, who selected American center Will Smith.