Fallen Johnny Gaudreau shaped Blackhawks' Connor Bedard's path to the NHL
Photo credit: Connor Bedard / Johnny Gaudreau Sportsnet
Johnny Gaudreau wasn't just one of the best wingers in the NHL; he was a game-changer for his size and skill.
His passing left a mark in the NHL that many can't measure.
When it comes to size, Gaudreau was a standout in the league.
The 31-year-old was a seven-time NHL All-Star, and his impact goes beyond just stats.
He was listed at 5'9", 163 pounds last season, but was just 5'6", 137 pounds when drafted by the Flames.
His size and skill have made NHL teams consider players who might have been overlooked before.
Thanks to Johnny Hockey, guys like Connor Bedard, now the top-line center for the Blackhawks, got their shot in the NHL.
Gaudreau helped open the door for "undersized" players to build a career in the league.
Gaudreau, a 4th-round, 104th-overall pick in the 2011 Draft, exceeded expectations by a mile.
His play convinced NHL owners and GMs to consider these players in the 1st round.
Like Gaudreau, Connor Bedard also defied expectations, scoring 61 points (22 G, 39 A) in his first NHL season and winning the Calder Memorial Trophy.
Bedard owes a nod to Johnny Hockey, as does the hockey community.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 4 | 117 ANSWERS Fallen Johnny Gaudreau shaped Blackhawks' Connor Bedard's path to the NHL Do you think Johnny Gaudreau should be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame one day? | ||
| Yes | 81 | 69.2 % |
| Maybe | 24 | 20.5 % |
| No | 12 | 10.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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