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.

Underestimating a Legend

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

Fans turn to social media to urge the NHL to ban Rangers forward Matt Rempe after latest ejection

New video shows the exact moment Auston Matthews re-injured himself against the Buffalo Sabres

Calgary Flames forward facing potential suspension for brutal hit to the jaw of Blackhawks star Connor Bedard

Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes confirms reports of a feud between J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson

Auston Matthews Has Suffered Another Injury And Will Be Out Of The Leafs Lineup Tonight

Former NHL Player Turned Analyst Reveals A Sidney Crosby Trade To Montreal Is "Not As Impossible As It Seems"

Leafs' Auston Matthews Gets Absolutely Wrecked By Sabres' Tage Thompson: Morgan Reilly To The Rescue

Matt Rempe Ejected Once Again For Horrific Hit Against The Stars And Could Face Lengthy Suspension

New York Rangers GM Chris Drury reportedly places another veteran defenseman on the trade block

Toronto Maple Leafs benefit from controversial call made by the referees against the Buffalo Sabres