Connor Bedard had perhaps the most high-profile rookie season of any NHLer since Connor McDavid broke onto the scene in 2015-16.
On an episode of Frankly Speaking with Daily Faceoff insider Frank Seravalli, Bedard discussed the challenges he had to deal with going from the WHL’s Regina Pats to the Chicago Blackhawks, and how he thinks he handled it.
Frank Seravalli: “When you think about adjustments that you make as the course of the season went on last year, what do you think stood out to you in terms of different things that you had to acclimate yourself to?”
Connor Bedard: “A big thing is outside of the games is your routine. You’re playing so much, just doing what you need to do to feel good. On the ice, I think just when to make plays, what’s going to be there. Coming from junior, you can obviously do a lot more. You’re coming in the best league in the world, but just figuring out where I can make plays, and then you feel like you can be almost just as effective.”
Frank Seravalli: “You mentioned routine. Is there one sort of secret or hack that you found? What have you changed up as you’ve gotten used to an 82-game schedule?”
Connor Bedard: “I think lifting a little more. When I was in junior, we didn’t really work out too much. We would if we had a couple days off or something. It takes you 20 minutes just to keep your strength throughout the year. I think that goes a long way by the time the year is coming to an end.”
Frank Seravalli: “Would you lift just on off days or do you lift after the game?”
Connor Bedard: “Yeah, maybe after the game, before some practice stuff. Not all the time. You don’t want to tire yourself out, but just here and there, just kind of maintain what you work for through the summer.”
Frank Seravalli: “What about nutrition and rest? What did you learn?
Connor Bedard: “I’ve always been a really good eater, so that part came easier. Then, yeah, just taking care of your body. Make sure you’re feeling good. Good sleep is a big thing. You’re on the road a lot. A lot of the time, you’re flying and getting back at 2:00 or 3:00 in the morning. Just get your sleep when you can and take care of yourself on off days. Off days by the end of the year become really important.”
