Connor Bedard has repeatedly acknowledged his love of playing in Chicago and the want to continue playing for the Hawks throughout the team's rebuild, in which speculation has suggested otherwise. Nevertheless until a new deal gets done, there will be nerves in the city.
Bedard has not enjoyed much team success in Chicago so far in his short 2 year tenure as the team has finished 31st in each of his seasons. Another bottom feeder season would not help quell the rumors of the young star being unhappy in his position, especially in a contract year.
As Chicago Blackhawks fans await the team's most pressing matter with the impending Connor Bedard contract extension, Hawks GM Kyle Davidson has finally addressed the elephant in the room.
Davidson comments on Bedard extension talks
Davidson appears to share the same mindset as Bedard through this process, stating he has "zero concerns" with getting Connor's extension done. The sides will get the deal signed when the time comes, there is no sense of rush in getting this done.
For both Bedard and the Hawks, they will hope for a season of more positive vibes and to see signs of a light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to Chicago's future. The Hawks will ice one of the younger roster's in the league and should be a more exciting team to watch this year. The question is will that change in identity lead to more on ice results?
For Chicago's sake, fans will hope the answer is yes. The success of this season will be important in shaping how the future Bedard extension plays out for both the player and team.