Connor Bedard makes passionate plea to play for Team Canada at 2026 Olympics - "I would do anything"

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard said he would do anything to play for Team Canada at the 2026 Olympics. The men’s hockey games will take place in Milan and Cortina (Italy) from February 11 to 22.

Bedard spoke about the opportunity during his appearance on TSN Overdrive this week. He was asked by Bryan Hayes to present his pitch if Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong calls and asks him the reason to select him.

"I think if he [Doug Armstrong] called me and asked me - I don't know if that really happens, but for me, I just think I'm someone that can create offense, really, when I touch the puck," Bedard said. "And obviously, you say that, but there are so many guys in Canada that can do that."

Further, Connor Bedard expressed his desire to be on the team. And he also mentioned that representing Canada would be a great honor.

"I think I'm someone that would kind of do anything to be on that team," Bedard said. "And obviously, I'm fortunate enough to be there. Like I said, there's so many great players that could, that could be there, but, you know, I just kind of, kind of give everything to it, you know, hopefully I get that honor,"

Connor Bedard is having a strong 2025–26 season with the Blackhawks. He has nine goals and 16 assists for 25 points in 16 games. His +10 rating shows better all-around play this year. Bedard ranks fourth in the league in points and continues to lead Chicago’s offense.

Bedard said he is focused on improving and helping his team win right now. Since it would also impact his selection chances in the final roster to be announced in January.

"But it's something I'm not really thinking about right now, what we're doing here, and trying to help my team win and be the best player I can be," Bedard said. "And obviously that gives me a shot."

Connor Bedard's impressive jump fueling Hawks' offense

Since being drafted first overall in 2023, Connor Bedard has become the face of the Chicago Blackhawks. He won the Calder Trophy in 2024 as Rookie of the Year after scoring 61 points. He followed that with 67 points last season.

Now in his third NHL season, Bedard’s play has witnessed a major leap. It has helped the Blackhawks reach an 8-5-3 record. His consistency and effort show he is becoming one of the league’s best young players.

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Edited by Ankit Kumar