NHL analyst Frank Seravalli pushes back on concern over Connor Bedard's contract extension with the Blackhawks
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NHL analyst Frank Seravalli is pushing back on levels of concern Blackhawks fans might have when it comes to Connor Bedard's next contract.
Right now, it doesn't look like there's much progress between the Chicago Blackhawks and Connor Bedard on a new contract.
Some of the reported holdup involves the length of the deal, which could be anywhere between five to eight years.
But for Blackhawks fans who are worried about the delay or Bedard potentially taking a shorter deal, NHL analyst Frank Seravalli says they shouldn't be.
Per a new report from Seravalli, Bedard could do what Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews did and sign a shorter term deal.
"First off, no, not concerning. Were Toronto Maple Leafs fans concerned when Auston Matthews signed a 5-year deal out of the chute of his entry level deal? No.
I think it depends on when Connor Bedard signs his deal. If he waits until after July 1, and obviously there's plenty of time between now and then, but if he waits until after July 1, the most years he could sign for anyway wratchets down to 7.
I don't think there's anything that's been decided in terms of term or dollars when it comes to Connor Bedard. There have been a couple nice additional price points that have been set that I think are huge."
I think it depends on when Connor Bedard signs his deal. If he waits until after July 1, and obviously there's plenty of time between now and then, but if he waits until after July 1, the most years he could sign for anyway wratchets down to 7.
I don't think there's anything that's been decided in terms of term or dollars when it comes to Connor Bedard. There have been a couple nice additional price points that have been set that I think are huge."
Connor Bedard And The Blackhawks Have Started Well This Season
Bedard, who was taken with the 1st overall pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, is trying to help the Blackhawks emerge from the Western Conference's basement.
He hasn't experienced NHL playoff hockey yet, and even though it's still a longshot for the Blackhawks to be in the playoffs this year, it likely won't be a terribly long wait if they continue their upward trend.
