Bedard praised Cristall's exceptional hockey IQ and his ability to create offense, calling it "special." He expressed confidence that whichever team drafts Cristall will be extremely satisfied with their decision... will it be the Blackhawks?
The Chicago Blackhawks currently hold the 1st and 19th overall pick in this summers draft, the Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson also stated to reporters that he is working on trading up, meaning trading the 19th overall pick plus assets in exchange for a much better first round pick.
Cristall is projected to go 18th overall, according to TSN's Bob MacKenzie, this may be the Blackhawks plan to draft Bedard's good friend and the most skilled player in his eyes.
Bedard's endorsement of Cristall's talent highlights the high regard in which he holds his teammate, emphasizing the potential impact Cristall can bring to any team fortunate enough to have him on their roster.