Connor Bedard leaving the Chicago Blackhawks: NHL analyst addresses it and it may be sooner than later

It's not a foregone conclusion [Bedard will] sign for eight years. I'm sure the Blackhawks will want that, but his side might want a five-year deal.

My understanding is neither side has pinpointed exactly how far down the road they've kicked the ball. It's a fluid delay. Perhaps they pick it back up in the new year. Perhaps it waits until after the season. Either way, nothing is imminent on that front.