Level of concern regarding Connor Bedard's future with the Chicago Blackhawks after training camp interview
According to a recent report, General Manager Kyle Davidson of the Chicago Blackhawks has zero concerns about getting an extension done with Connor Bedard, keeping him in the United Center beyond his entry-level contract.
This is starting to reach a level of concern though.
Connor Bedard is the foundation out of which the rebuild grows for the Chicago Blackhawks.
He assured fans that he wants to stay here long term and see the rebuild through, but as far as
contract negotiations go, nothing has been signed yet.
While we've heard no updates on his extension, GM Kyle Davidson
adressed concerns about a lack of a contract with their 1st OA pick in 2023.
Chicago Blackhawks admit they haven't even worked on extending Connor Bedard's
"[There's] nothing we're actively working on right now,» Davidson said Thursday. «I'll say it: I have zero concern about where that's headed. He wants to be here for a long time, and we want him for a long time. We're going to make that happen.»
Much like
Spencer Knight and
Frank Nazar, an extension should already be on the table to limit any distractions for this upcoming season.
The concern regarding this specific statement from Davidson is if he continues to play this waiting game, Bedard's mindset on remaining with the Blackhawks long term could ultimately change.
Especially if this drags into the season, and it's a similar rough year start once again.
What Will Connor Bedard's next contract look like?
Bedard has scored 128 points in the NHL and won the Calder Trophy in his rookie season in the league.
The Blackhawks will have to reward him with a rich contract as their 1C, who has produced at a level beyond
Nathan MacKinnon (an elite NHL producer) at that stage in his career.
Neither Davidson nor Bedard will rush to get a deal done, as it appears they both want to negotiate without pressure and ensure Bedard is there for the entire ride.
«I've said a bunch [of times] it hasn't been ruthless or anything. It's just a couple chats. It's all pretty chill. We have a good relationship. It's not something that keeps you up at night or that I really ever think about.»
It's been speculated by
Ben Pope of the CST that he'll sign an eight-year contract with the Blackhawks.
The center could fetch 10% of the Blackhawks' cap, which could pay him $10.4 million AAV, which could be the baseline for his next deal.
For us fans, we just have to take both Davidson and Bedard at their word as they will get a deal done when the time is right.
Patience is the key.
Previously on Hawks Insider
| POLL |
SEPTEMBRE 19 | 335 ANSWERS Level of concern regarding Connor Bedard's future with the Chicago Blackhawks after training camp interview Do you think center Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks will sign a new deal before the end of the season? |
| Yes | 231 | 69 % |
| No | 104 | 31 % |
| List of polls |