Both Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini have had excellent starts to the 2025-26 season, but it appears as though Celebrini may have a leg up on Bedard when it comes to making the Canadian Olympic team next year.
Team Canada won gold in the 4 Nations Faceoff with a similar team that they are going to bring to the Olympics, but there will be some changes to all four teams, plus many other countries also competing.
Bedard has began the season with seven goals and 18 points in 14 games, which should get him some serious consideration for the team this time around. But even if he or any other younger player don't make the cut, there's almost a guarantee that in four years, they will make it.
While Bedard is heating up and having a great start, Celebrini has been just a little better with eight goals and 21 points in 14 games. Both are top line centers on their respective teams, both former number one overall picks, and a case could easily be made for both to be on Team Canada this time around.
Nick Kypreos said, "Macklin Celebrini is getting serious consideration to be included on Team Canada's Olympic team. For now, Celebrini has a significant leg up on Connor Bedard for the spot."
I don't know about significant, but Celebrini has a better two-way game, is better in faceoffs, and is larger. Both are very good young players and Canada is fortunate to have both to represent their country for years to come.
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