Connor Bedard (98) and Gavin McKenna (72) go head to head in a game between the Regina Pats and Medicine Hat Tigers on Saturday, February 5, 2023. (Jacob Varcoe photo)

By Jacob Varcoe

Bedard, McKenna following each other’s careers and supporting successes

Feb 7, 2023 | 4:58 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Gavin McKenna and Connor Bedard are both first overall selections for their Western Hockey League clubs, but their bond goes beyond that.

Bedard was the main attraction at Co-op Place on Sunday, when his Regina Pats took on the Medicine Hat Tigers. McKenna and the Tigers dumped Regina 5-1 in front of a sold out crowd of 6,178 fans.

During the visit, Bedard revealed a connection he shares with forward McKenna.

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“Getting to play him tonight was fun and our families know each other a little bit,” said Bedard post-game on Sunday.

“I gave him a little text after each of his accomplishments or whatnot.”

McKenna is in his first year with the Tigers after being drafted as a 14-year old. He made an instant impact with his new club, recording four assists in a 9-1 win over the Lethbridge Hurricanes in his WHL debut.

The young Tigers forward recognizes what Bedard is accomplishing as one of the most recognized names in the sport. The two have interacted with each other on and off the ice.

“He’s talked to me a couple times, just after my draft, I texted him after his exceptional status and he texted me after the home opener,” said McKenna, on Tuesday.

“I’ve known him for a while so it’s pretty cool to see what he’s doing what he’s doing now. He’s probably the most talked about hockey player in the world right now, so it’s pretty cool.”

When the two faced off head-to-head on Sunday they had the opportunity to speak to each other in person for the first time.

“He was on his way out and he saw me and just said good game, good luck everything and good to see you. Then, on the ice he said hey, nice to meet you and finally see you,” said McKenna.

“He was a really nice guy.”

Bedard is the consensus first overall pick for the upcoming 2023 NHL Entry Draft in June. He’s recorded 45 goals and 91 points in 38 games so far this season.

McKenna was selected first overall by Medicine Hat in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft. He joined some elite company of other former first overall selections that include Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Jonathan Toews, Mathew Barzal and Bedard.

“Obviously they’re great players,” said McKenna, on Tuesday. “Just to be in that talk is a super cool feeling.”

McKenna and the Tigers are back in action against the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Friday night. Bedard and the Pats will take on the Moose Jaw Warriors on Saturday.