Connor Bedard’s Olympic dream hits crunch time as Canada deadline nears

The Chicago Blackhawks aren't having the greatest time as of late, as a solid start to the season has been nullified by a brutal recent stretch. They have lost eight of their last 10 games, with their latest loss arriving on Sunday, when they were soundly defeated 7-1 by the Anaheim Ducks. Even though the losses are piling up, the Blackhawks see Connor Bedard not only solidify himself as the face of the franchise but also as one of the top young stars in the NHL.

Through 29 games, Bedard has 18 goals and 22 assists to his credit. That is why he is being considered for the Team Canada Olympic roster. Given Canada's stocked roster, he is on the bubble. But is his play this season helping his case?

Bedard Making it Difficult for Team Canada to Finalize Roster

Canada coach Jon Cooper spoke about the team's decision-making process as the deadline to finalize the roster approaches on New Year's Eve. Cooper said that "things are going to get excruciatingly tough" because of the play of Bedard and San Jose Sharks star Macklin Celebrini.

"It's a good thing, though, isn't it?" Cooper said, h/t Sportsnet. "I mean, good for them. And it's just amazing that players that young can come in and have such a positive impact. I guess when they say it's a young man's game, it really is. These are extreme talents."

The fact that Bedard has the attention of Canada's head coach should really help his case. But let's not forget that it is not one person who decides on the roster. It's also general manager Doug Armstrong and other NHL front-office executives on staff.

Bedard's Tough Competition

Bedard's main competition, besides Celebrini, is Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson and Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki. Wilson is known for his hard-hitting style that non-Capitals fans hate, but can be a good foil to the Tkachuk brothers on Team USA. But Wilson is also putting up points this year, as evidenced by his 17 goals and 15 assists through 30 games. As for Suzuki, he is the perfect playmaker and has the defensive prowess as a forward that is giving him Selke Trophy consideration.

Everyone on the bubble is playing well this year, so Team Canada has some difficult choices to make. Cooper brings up that these players have the next couple of weeks to make their final cases.

"Decisions are going to be tough, like excruciatingly tough, which is a good thing. That means the kids are playing well. Coming down the next couple of weeks here, this is crunch time," said Cooper.

We'll see if the Bedard can do enough to win a spot, especially over a veteran like Wilson.