NHL teams, prospects have plenty to talk about at scouting combine

Adam Fantilli spoke with 11 teams. Leo Carlsson chatted with the same number.

Connor Bedard, meanwhile, didn't get specific when asked how many clubs — "a pretty good amount" — quizzed the presumptive No. 1 overall pick at the NHL scouting combine in Buffalo, N.Y.

Three players expected to go in the top-5 picks at this month's draft were poked, prodded and tested this week as the league's 32 franchises prepare to select the next wave of talent.

But why would teams speak with players — Bedard is all but assured of going first to Chicago, while Fantilli could go as high as No. 2 to the Anaheim Ducks — they have no realistic hope of selecting?

WATCH | Bedard sets eyes on future:

"I don't think it's always for right now," said Fantilli, who sits behind only Bedard on NHL Central Scouting's list of North American skaters. "Sometimes trades could happen down the line, picks could switch. You never know.

"They might be doing due diligence for further down the line... in my career and in theirs."

Bedard, a 17-year-old phenom from North Vancouver, B.C., being mentioned in the same breath as Connor McDavid, enjoyed the banter with general managers and scouting staffs.

Columbus Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen, whose club is slated to pick third behind Chicago and Anaheim, said every organization has its process.

The interviews and dinners offer insight into the subject, but can also be about getting information on other prospects.

"Maybe some players that he played with on the national team or find out about his character — just in case," Kekalainen said of chatting with Bedard. "You never know what happens down the road. We'll get to know him a little bit, what makes him so good and why he's become so good at what he does."

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