The NHL recognized the outstanding performance of 18-year-old Connor Bedard in his rookie season by including him in the All-Star roster, making him the youngest player ever to achieve this honor.

Selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in June, Bedard has showcased his skills with 15 goals and 18 assists in 38 games this season. Among his notable achievements are two game-winning goals for the Blackhawks and a spectacular “Michigan goal” where he lifted the puck on his stick and scored from behind the net using a lacrosse-like move.

Bedard’s impressive tally of 33 points leads all NHL rookies, positioning him as a top contender for the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s rookie of the year.

Included in the league’s All-Star roster alongside childhood heroes and mentors like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, Bedard has emerged as the most highly anticipated rookie since McDavid (2015) and Crosby (2005).

In an interview with PEOPLE last year, Bedard expressed his gratitude for advice received from seasoned players like McDavid and even received a phone call from Wayne Gretzky. Despite the growing popularity, Bedard remɑins focused, attributing his success to his passion for hockey since a young age.

Having idolized players like Crosby during his upbringing, Bedard now finds himself sharing the ice with his childhood idols at the upcoming NHL All-Star Game. His inclusion in the prestigious event is a testament to his rapid ascent in the NHL, earning praise from fellow players like Los Angeles Kings defenseman Brandt Clarke, who described him as “a special player.”