Connor Bedard selected to participate in marquee NHL event

This year's Winter Classic game between the Vegas Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken proved to be a massive success as an event, but failed to draw television numbers for the NHL. In response, it was immediately rumoured that the league would shift back to an original 6 franchise, and wanted Connor Bedard to be a part of it. The NHL has now executed that plan, and has them slotted against a historical rival in the Blues.

However, some fans are expressing concerns that these teams aren't quality enough to qualify for the big stage of the Winter Classic. The Chicago Blackhawks are terrible this year, and will likely be terrible again next year, and the Blues are a fringe playoff team. It does make sense to market Bedard in the Winter Classic, but at this point with the Blackhawks where they are, feels premature. It perhaps could've been better if they were slotted against a higher level opponent than the Blues.

Regardless, the NHL winter classic is always a fantastic scene to watch. Hopefully the NHL branches out to recognize some other teams as well soon, but this will still be an incredible watch next season.