Connor Bedard's teammate exposes Connor Bedard's going through a struggle
Photo credit: MATT CARLSON
Connor Bedard's teammate exposes Connor Bedard's going through a struggle
Yet, to his linemate Philipp Kurashev, Bedard is not just a star but a close friend.
Kurashev was integral to Bedard's breakout season in 2023-2024, the same year Bedard was the #1 overall draft pick.
Recently, Kurashev shared insights about their unique dynamic with "Tages-Anzieger," a leading Swiss newspaper. Kurashev, who achieved a career-high of 18 goals and 54 points, spoke about adjusting to Bedard's on-ice creativity.
"You often think that he can't see you at all and that you're not open, but despite that a perfect pass is suddenly coming," Kurashev said.
Born in Russia but raised in Switzerland, Kurashev is familiar with Davos, a city known for its affluent residents, where his father Konstantin coached hockey.
As a Swiss national, Kurashev skated for the Swiss national team, securing a silver medal in the IIHF. This season, he tallied two assists and a shootout goal in eight games for Switzerland.
Kurashev in action
On the international stage, Bedard faced challenges, finishing fourth with eight points (5 G, 3 A) in 10 games and no medals.
Despite leading all NHL rookies with 22 goals and 61 points, Bedard struggled against the intense international competition.
"He didn't have a lot of time and space," Canadian coach André Tourigny said after Finland shut down Bedard. "They were on top."
Bedard was eventually benched, becoming Team Canada's 13th forward.
Bedard's rising fame brought increased scrutiny, especially in Europe. He was constantly in the spotlight, dealing with media attention and high expectations.
"If you had asked me that a couple of years ago, maybe it's different," Bedard said. "I'm grown up now. It's not really the same as much anymore. I'm just playing hockey and just kind of living my life. I'm not too worried about any of it."
Kurashev expressed sympathy for Bedard, noting the immense pressure his teammate faced.
"Sometimes I felt sorry for him," Kurashev told the Tages-Anzeiger. "He was our player who had to talk to the media the most often. When it had to do with our team, he was always referred to. He had constant appointments - interviews, photoshoots, and what else I don't even know.
"Even at hotels or on the street, everyone constantly wanted something from him."
"Even at hotels or on the street, everyone constantly wanted something from him."
Despite the relentless attention, Bedard remained the focal point on the ice. Every time he touched the puck, all eyes were on him. Kurashev admirably supported Bedard, recognizing his star power while maintaining his own contributions.
Unfortunately, the Blackhawks had a tough season, finishing 31st with a 23-53-6 record, the most losses in a single season.
"Hockey is a team sport, and when you lose so often, you become tired mentally, then it becomes hard to stay focused positively," Kurashev said.
https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/players/connor-bedard-linemate-philipp-kurashev-sometimes-felt-sorry-for-blackhawks-rookie-calder-finalist-and-wunderkind
| POLL | ||
29 MAI | 70 ANSWERS Connor Bedard's teammate exposes Connor Bedard's going through a struggle Do you believe that Connor Bedard was subjected to excessive pressure during this season? | ||
| Yes | 65 | 92.9 % |
| No | 5 | 7.1 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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