Connor Bedard had a terrific, award-winning rookie season. He's been tabbed as a generational prospect, which means he is likely to play even better next season. He scored 22 goals and had 39 assists last year for one of the worst teams in hockey. Naturally, the expectations are high this season.
Sportsnet's X account posed the question if Bedard would surpass 30 goals in his sophomore season. It only requires an increase of eight, but he remains one of the only offensive threats on the roster, so defenses can key in on him.
NHL fans waded into the debate and made their opinions known regarding this proposed over/under line for Bedard's goals in 2024-25. They were mostly split.
"I just put my life’s savings on the over easiest lock of my life," one fan said.
"If he can stay healthy and get some protection on that top Hawks line this should be easy for him," another added.
"If I'm being honest, the only way he'll surprise me is if he gets 50+. He will eventually anyway, but it'd be crazy if he did it in his second season," one said.
"He’ll score 20-25. Soo, false," one disagreed.
The star player is full of potential and has a bright future. However, some fans aren't sure if his body will hold up or if he has enough talent with the Chicago Blackhawks to take the next step.
NHL analyst predicts huge sophomore season from Connor Bedard
Connor Bedard had a terrific rookie season. The next step is to become one of hockey's best players as he has long been predicted to be. A sophomore slump could be in the cards, like it has been for so many standouts, but Paul Pidutti believes that won't be the case.
Pidutti said, via Bleacher Nation:
"I think we’re going to blink and see him ascend near the top of the league by April. Assuming full health, Bedard will hit 40 goals and 100 points. His breakout will be heavily fueled by becoming a legitimate power player weapon."
He continued praising Bedard:
"He’ll progress so quickly that he’ll be an easy choice as a top-six forward that leaves a mark on Team Canada in the 4 Nations Faceoff. Visually, Bedard will routinely make highlight reel plays that few others consider — both as an elite sniper and playmaker."
In regards to the over/under line proposed in the above section, Pidutti is confident Connor Bedard will smash the over.