NHL insider reveals clip of Blackhawks' Bedard dominating at brick tournament

The Brick Invitational hockey tournament has become a staple of summer in Edmonton, Alberta, showcasing top-tier U10 division hockey players at the West Edmonton Mall each year.

This event, founded in 1990 by Bill Comrie of The Brick furniture store, combines competitive youth hockey with a unique shopping experience, leveraging the mall's ice rink to create a dynamic sporting event.

Each summer, the tournament draws attention not only for its exciting games but also for its nostalgic ties to the early days of many NHL greats.

Recently, Cam Robinson revisited the tournament, sparking interest with a throwback to Conor Bedard's impressive performance as a young star.

During his stint at the tournament, Bedard played for the BC Junior Canucks, participating in six games where he scored an impressive eight goals and provided one assist, tallying up to nine points with just two penalty minutes.

His standout performance at such a young age hinted at his future success, which has been closely followed by hockey fans and analysts alike.

The Brick Invitational not only highlights the early potential of players like Bedard but also serves as a barometer for the NHL's budding talent.

Over the years, it has featured several players who went on to be drafted into the NHL, including stars like Will Smith, Carey Terrance, Ryan Leonard, and Oliver More.

This list of alumni underscores the tournament's role in developing young talent and providing them with a platform to shine.

This year's tournament comes at a poignant time for Edmonton, as the city and its hockey fans are still processing the Oilers' dramatic Game Seven loss in the Stanley Cup Finals to the Florida Panthers.

The city has been abuzz with hockey discussions, fueled by both the Oilers' thrilling playoff run and the ongoing Brick Invitational.

As the NHL kicks off its unrestricted free agency period, the timing of the Brick Invitational serves as a reminder of the continual cycle of talent that flows through Edmonton, from youth tournaments to professional leagues.

The event not only keeps the city at the center of hockey conversations during the off-season but also enriches the community's strong sporting culture, making it a key event every summer.