While the Blue Jackets' chances of making the playoffs this season are almost zero (2% according to moneypuck.com), there are still individual matchups to look forward to throughout the season.
Wednesday's clash against the Blackhawks is the most anticipated player vs. player battle of Columbus' season, as Connor Bedard, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 Draft, faces Adam Fantilli, the No. 3 pick in the 2023 Draft.
“We’re both competitors," Fantilli told BlueJackets.com's Jeff Svoboda. "We’re both going to play our best tonight. It’s gonna be fun. I’m excited to play against him.”
#CBJ Fantilli (4) goal pic.twitter.com/DfeZm24gjg
— Coby Maeir (@CobyMaeir) November 13, 2023
Fantilli has been excellent as a 19-year-old rookie so far, registering 4-5--9 in 19 games. There are nights where he looks like their best player and in a season that has been difficult for fans, players, coaches, and management, there is a silver lining. Fantilli is the real deal and, health permitting, should be the team's No. 1 center for the next decade.
As for 18-year-old Bedard, dubbed a "generational prospect" and the best prospect since Connor McDavid, he's lived up to the hype so far. In 16 games, he's recorded 9-6--15, and is on pace for 46 goals, which would be the fifth-most by a rookie in NHL history.
no games tonight so here's every Connor Bedard goal from this season pic.twitter.com/MZGy2ITmnd
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) November 22, 2023
"It should be fun going against him," Bedard told BlueJackets.com's Jeff Svoboda on Wednesday, adding that this is the first time they'll play against each other. "Obviously, [he's] someone I follow really closely with his success and his career so far."
Bedard has gone three games without a goal and Fantilli has gone the same span without a point. Will either of those streaks end on Wednesday?
