ESPN Makes Bold Prediction for Sidney Crosby

Sidney Crosby didn't earn his status as one of the greatest hockey players of all time by accident. Even though he's aging and perhaps not as prolific as before, he remains a force to be reckoned with among the NHL's elite centers. This is why ESPN's prediction that rookie Connor Bedard will outscore Crosby in the upcoming season has sparked some debate.

Scheduled to play for the underperforming Chicago Blackhawks this season, Bedard is projected to score 90 points, even as he shares the ice with linemate Taylor Hall. Crosby, on the other hand, is predicted to come in just a point shy at 89.

As for Crosby, he will be part of a Pittsburgh Penguins roster undergoing significant changes. Alongside veteran players like Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, and boosted by new additions Erik Karlsson and Reilly Smith, it's hard to see Crosby struggling to earn points, whether he's scoring goals or providing assists.

Karlsson, notably, racked up 101 points last season with the San Jose Sharks, earning his third Norris Trophy. Moreover, Crosby himself tallied 93 points last year, despite a tumultuous season filled with on-ice challenges and organizational missteps for the Penguins.

While there's little doubt that Connor Bedard is set for a bright future, it's premature to assume he will outperform Crosby in point totals during his debut season in the NHL.

As seen on Daily Hockey Dose - ESPN Makes Unbelievable Prediction About Crosby This Season