Connor McDavid's arrival in Chicago: He was just granted permission to join the Blackhawks
Photo credit: USA Today Sports
Connor McDavid was linked to the Chicago Blackhawks by a top insider after comments from Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman, and now he's been granted permission to join the organization.
With only a year left on his contract, Connor McDavid could end up being available on free agency if he decides to pursue his career elsewhere.
While his extension is Stan Bowman's biggest priority, it's McDavid's call on where he goes moving forward.
Giving McDavid the option to join the Blackhawks while exploring the open market.
After two disappointing playoff runs, McDavid was vague when he opened up on his future with the Oilers during his end-of-season press conference:
"I'm going to take some time to regroup there's no rush on anything like that."
While fans hoped for reassurance, what came next was even more concerning. GM Stan Bowman publicly stated that contract negotiations would happen on McDavid's terms:
"He's the #1 priority. I think also, listening to Connor's take, he's earned the right for us to be respectful of his timing."
But if McDavid chooses not to extend, Bowman will have no choice but to let him speak to other organizations.
Insider Pierre LeBrun listed the Chicago Blackhawks, alongside the Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, and Dallas Stars, as the few realistic landing spots should McDavid decide to move on. And the fit in Chicago makes more sense than most.
The Hawks are quietly building something intriguing and could be one elite piece away from a real run.
"Teams like the Los Angeles Kings, with former Oilers GM Ken Holland, are keeping a close eye. If and when McDavid ever leaves, it's a short list of markets that I believe would be a fit for him: L.A., the New York Rangers, the Chicago Blackhawks, the Dallas Stars, etc. It would not be a free-for-all, with 25 teams getting a chance at it.
[Chicago] got the market, the plan, and the roster flexibility. McDavid would be the ultimate game-changer."
[Chicago] got the market, the plan, and the roster flexibility. McDavid would be the ultimate game-changer."
No matter where he ends up, McDavid will instantly transform any team into a serious contender, but also change the whole face of the franchise.
Previously on HawksInsider
| POLL | ||
JUIN 26 | 762 ANSWERS Connor McDavid's arrival in Chicago: He was just granted permission to join the Blackhawks Do you think Connor McDavid will join the Chicago Blackhawks like the reports are suggesting? | ||
| Yes | 200 | 26.2 % |
| No | 562 | 73.8 % |
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