Connor Bedard has been outstanding for the Chicago Blackhawks this season, establishing himself not only as an elite offensive talent but also as a thoughtful voice when it comes to understanding the bigger picture of team success. While Bedard continues to shine in the NHL, he also knows what it takes to build a winning Olympic roster. According to him, international tournaments are not about stacking the lineup with star scorers alone. They are about balance, adaptability, and players who can handle any situation thrown at them.
That perspective came through clearly when Bedard appeared on the 32 Thoughts Podcast alongside teammate Frank Nazar. Asked about what makes Nazar a strong Olympic candidate, Bedard offered insight that went beyond goals and highlight plays. His message was simple but powerful. To win gold, teams need players who can do everything.
Connor Bedard explains why Frank Nazar is built for Olympic hockey
When Connor Bedard spoke about Frank Nazar’s Olympic potential, he made it clear that skill alone is not the deciding factor. While he acknowledged Nazar’s offensive ability, Bedard focused on the areas that truly separate him from others.
“Versatility is something obviously special,” Bedard explained. “He’s a special offensive player, but he’s our first guy out there on the penalty kill, six on five, any situation, taking faceoffs, really anything.”
That trust is not given lightly. Nazar is often the first option when the Blackhawks need a big defensive stop or a key faceoff. He can be relied upon late in games, whether the team is protecting a lead or pushing for a goal. That kind of responsibility shows how complete his game has become.
In Olympic hockey, where games are often tight and margins are razor thin, those details matter more than raw point totals. Coaches value players who understand systems, execute under pressure, and contribute even when they are not scoring. Nazar fits that mold perfectly in Bedard’s eyes.
What makes Nazar stand out is his willingness to embrace any role. He does the hard work that rarely makes headlines, such as blocking shots, battling along the boards, and chasing down pucks on the penalty kill. According to Bedard, that is exactly the type of player coaches look for when building a short tournament roster with everything on the line.
Olympic teams are built on roles, not star power
One of Bedard’s most important points was about how Olympic teams are actually constructed. Too often, fans assume success comes from assembling the most talented group possible. Bedard disagrees.
“When you’re building those types of teams, it’s not an All Star team,” he said. “It’s the guys that fill roles, and he’s someone that can fill any role.”
That flexibility is what makes Nazar so valuable. He can play on the top line if scoring is needed. He can slide into a fourth line role and bring energy, speed, and defensive responsibility. He can take key penalty kill shifts and still contribute offensively when opportunities arise.
Bedard described that ability as rare. Few players are trusted in every situation, especially at the highest level of hockey. Nazar’s comfort moving between roles allows coaches to adjust lines and matchups without sacrificing structure. In a tournament like the Olympics, where there is little time to recover from mistakes, that adaptability can decide games.
As Bedard wrapped up his thoughts, he reinforced just how highly he values that quality. Nazar’s ability to contribute in all areas of the game is what makes him special, not just his offensive skill.
Now, as Bedard continues his own push as one of the league’s brightest stars, his words carry weight. If Hockey Canada wants to put together a roster capable of winning gold, listening to players like Connor Bedard might be the smartest move they make.
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