The Western Hockey League playoffs were nothing short of thrilling this year, with nail-biting games and extraordinary performances from talented young players. One of those players was 15-year-old phenom Connor Bedard, who took the league by storm with his exceptional skills and on-ice presence. However, Bedard’s incredible season came to an end when his team, the Regina Pats, fell to the Saskatoon Blades in a tightly contested Game 7. In this article, we’ll explore the details of Bedard’s final game of the season and reflect on the impressive campaign he had as a rookie in the WHL.
Connor Bedard’s impressive season with the Regina Pats has come to an end. The team suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat to the Saskatoon Blades in the Western Hockey League playoff action on Monday, losing their first-round seven-game series. Jake Chiasson’s goal at 7:56 in the third period proved to be the winner, leading the Blades to victory. Bedard’s exceptional performance throughout the season was not enough to help the Pats secure the win in the playoffs. He had 71 goals and 72 assists in 57 regular-season games, making him a strong contender for the upcoming NHL entry draft. Bedard also contributed significantly to the first six games of the series against the Blades, scoring 11 goals and eight assists.
The Blades dominated the game, outshooting the Pats 41-16 and keeping them scoreless in the first period. Other Blades players, including Spencer Shugrue, Vaughn Watterodt, and Trevor Wong, contributed to their win, with Wong scoring an empty-netter. The Blades will now take on the Red Deer Rebels in the Eastern Conference semifinal, while the Winnipeg ICE will face the Moose Jaw Warriors in the other East semifinal.
In the Western Conference, the Seattle Thunderbirds will play the Prince George Cougars in one semifinal, while the Kamloops Blazers will face the Portland Winterhawks in the other. The Blazers are set to host and play in the 2023 Memorial Cup, which will take place from May 25 to June 4 at the Sandman Centre. The Canadian Press published this report on April 10, 2023.
Although Connor Bedard’s season with the Regina Pats has come to an end, it is undeniable that the young phenom has left an indelible mark on the Western Hockey League. His talent, poise, and leadership on and off the ice have earned him widespread recognition and respect from his teammates, coaches, and competitors. And while the loss to the Saskatoon Blades in Game 7 was undoubtedly a disappointment, it is important to remember that Bedard’s journey has only just begun. With his incredible skill and drive, there’s no doubt that he will continue to shine on the ice and make waves in the hockey world for years to come.
