The Regina Pats announced that they will select forward Connor Bedard, the first exceptional status player in WHL history, first overall in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft on Wednesday; in addition, the 15-year-old has signed a WHL Standard Player Agreement with the club.
The Pats secured the first overall selection in the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft Lottery on March 25, 2020.
Bedard was the top-ranked player in the WHL Bantam Draft but our scouts in our WHL Draft Final Rankings report that was posted on Monday.
“His shot is a rocket and he changed his point of release very well,” said NZ scouts. “He can shoot far from his body or near his feet. Felt like he had an unlimited number of ways to fire pucks on the net. He used his backhand well to pass and shoot. Scored another goal where he split the defense and rifled a goal far side, top corner. It’s often tough for players with the hype like he has around him to live up to expectations. He mostly did, however.”
Bedard, from Vancouver, B.C. played midget hockey as a 14-year-old last season, scoring 43 goals and 84 points in 36 games with West Van Academy of the CSSHL. He led the league with his 43 goals and 84 points and was named the CSSHL Most Valuable Player.
Bedard was also the CSSBHL MVP in 2018-19 and led the league in goals with 64 and 88 points in 30 games.
“I am so honored and excited to have the chance to be a part of such a great organization like the Regina Pats,” said Bedard. “I can’t wait to get to Regina and play in front of the awesome fans.”
Bedard will be the second first overall pick in Regina Pats history, the club drafted defenseman Colten Teubert first overall in 2005. The 2020 WHL Bantam Draft will take place on April 22nd.
“This is a big day for our organization,” said Pats VP of Hockey Operations and General Manager John Paddock. “Connor is an exceptional person and a great player; we look forward to seeing him in a Pats uniform next season.”