Connor McDavid on decision to fight: 'Not going to sit there and take punches'

Top draft prospect Connor McDavid returned to practice for the first time since breaking a bone in his hand during an OHL fight on Nov. 12, and says he wouldn't do anything differently.

In an interview Monday after practice, McDavid explained why he droped the gloves and threw a few punches.

"I just got into it, and he dropped his gloves, and I'm not just going to sit there and take punches," McDavid declared. 

"I wouldn't necessarily change a whole lot. I think it was the right thing to do. I'd rather fight than turtle or anything like that."

Still, McDavid seemed rather dejected about the injury and not being able to play. 

"It's about as crappy as you can imagine," he said. "Broken hand, you know, not a whole lot you can do." 

McDavid feels fortunate that he avoided surgery and was able to resume skating, adding it's up to doctors to determine whether he'll be ready in time for the World Junior Championships beginning Dec. 26. 

All things considered, he remains in line to be selected first overall at the 2015 NHL Draft. And much to the delight of grit and heart proponents, the message has been sent: this future superstar won't be pushed around.