There was plenty of reasons for fans to cheer at the Brandt Centre on Sunday even though the Regina Pats did not make the playoffs.
Connor Bedard made history by becoming the youngest player to score 50 goals in the Western Hockey League. Bedard finished off his season picking up two goals and three assists to help Regina earn a 7-4 win against Moose Jaw.
The 16 year old wrapped up the season with 51 goals and 49 assists for 100 points. Bedard becomes the third 16 year old to record 50 goals in the WHL. Bedard finished off the season fourth overall in the Western Hockey League in points.
After the game, Bedard says he was happy to achieve the milestone. “I feel like the whole game, I was kind of fighting it, fighting the puck when I was shooting.” Bedard added, “I didn’t really expect to be able to get to 100 but that was definitely nice.”
Bedard is happy with the individual success by reaching 50 goals and 100 points, but he would have preferred a playoff spot. “Coming into the season those are kind of numbers you are looking at, but you try not to think of too much. I would trade it all to be in the playoffs but it’s definitely pretty cool.”
Fans at the Brandt Centre on Sunday are hoping the Pats victory against the Warriors is a sign of things to come in the 2022-23 season. Bedard believes there is plenty of potential for the Pats to achieve next season. “Tonight was an unreal atmosphere, the excitement of the building, even though they knew we were out, just that excitement and I think everyone on this team is looking forward to next season.”
Even though Bedard will be entering his 17 year old season next year, the 2022-23 season will likely be Bedard’s final season in the Western Hockey League as he is anticipated to be selected at the top of the 2023 NHL Draft.
