Connor Bedard, the 19-year-old center for the Chicago Blackhawks, experienced a memorable moment practicing at Wrigley Field ahead of the Winter Classic against the St. Louis Blues. This event marks the second time Wrigley has hosted the Winter Classic, previously doing so in 2009, and it is notable as the first rematch in the event's history. Bedard, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, expressed his excitement about playing outdoors in such a historic venue.

As Bedard prepares for his first showcase game, he acknowledges the unique atmosphere that comes with playing outside. This Winter Classic is particularly significant as it features two teams that have made in-season coaching changes, with Jim Montgomery now leading the Blues after Drew Bannister’s departure. Montgomery's positive impact on the team is evident, as they have shown improvement since his arrival.

Players like Jordan Kyrou and Brandon Saad bring experience from previous outdoor games, adding to the anticipation for the match. Despite Chicago's struggles under interim coach Anders Sorensen, Bedard has been performing well, shaking off a scoring drought and contributing significantly to the team's efforts. The matchup promises to be an exciting event for both teams, with fans eager to witness the action at Wrigley Field.