This is why they play the games!
A heavily favoured Canadian side was taken down 5-2 by Czechia during the opening game of the 2023 World Junior Championship on Monday.
Canada outshot Czechia 38-26, but it was all for naught. Stanislav Svozil led the way for Czechia with a goal and an assist, and though Connor Bedard looked every bit worthy of the first overall pick next summer, it wasn’t enough.
Here are three takeaways and one key criticism from Czechia’s stunning victory.
Connor Bedard’s otherworldly shot on full display
Connor Bedard is the best player to enter the draft since Auston Matthews, and much like the Maple Leafs superstar, the 17-year-old possesses an extraordinary release that belies his undersized stature.