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Connor Bedard opens up on contract talks with the Chicago Blackhawks in exclusive interview
Photo credit: NHL.com
Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard is not a sitting duck this offseason while going through contract negotiations with general managers Kyle Davidson as he continues to wow fans during his offseason training.
The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL entry draft has been eligible for a contract extension as of July 1st, but the pen has yet to be put to paper.
If a contract is not inked soon, Bedard enter restricted free agency in the summer of 2026.
The newly turned 20-year old forward is not expected to sign a contract extension with the Blackhawks this offseason, as he reportedly plans to hold out until next year and make a larger salary with the salary cap expecting to take a significant jump.
Bedard reveals contract extension talks with Blackhawks, GM Kyle Davidson, have gone well
''You talk here and there,'' Bedard said of talking about a contract extension with Chicago's front office. ''It's all been positive. Obviously, it hasn't happened yet, but there's no concern [about] anything from either end. There's a good relationship there, so that will get done when it gets done.''
Despite the negotiations potentially spanning over the next year, it is certainly a bright side hearing him reveal that he's committed to playing in Chicago.
Just a few months ago, Bedard made it clear that he intends to stay with the Blackhawks despite numerous rumors that he may be unhappy with the current teams state.
«We have a great relationship and everyone knows I want to be a Hawk as long as I'm playing,» Bedard said. «And I know they appreciate me and want me with the team. Once you know that, there's no stress or anything about that.
«Whether it's done next week or during the year or at the end of the year, that doesn't stress me out too much. Anything can happen, but the relationship with me and the team is really strong.»
«Whether it's done next week or during the year or at the end of the year, that doesn't stress me out too much. Anything can happen, but the relationship with me and the team is really strong.»
Bedard has tallied up 128 points (45 goals, 83 assists) throughout 150 games in his first two years in the NHL, at 20 years of age, he's expected to cash in big on his next deal.
Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 28 | 371 ANSWERS Connor Bedard opens up on contract talks with the Chicago Blackhawks in exclusive interview Do you think Connor Bedard will earn $10M+ average per year on his next contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks? | ||
| Yes | 210 | 56.6 % |
| Maybe | 63 | 17 % |
| No, that's too much | 98 | 26.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
