Hawks superstar makes firm statement on his future

There has been a lot of speculation around the world of hockey media involving the future of 19 year old Chicago Blackhawks phenom Connor Bedard. Many pundits have put out the notion that the teenager is unhappy with his current situation in Chicago and wants out. 

Today, Connor Bedard made a statement in an article with Blackhawks insider Mark Lazerus putting those rumors to bed. Bedard was quoted saying "Everyone knows I want to be a Hawk as long as I'm playing." 

Bedard is clearly committed to his future in Chicago. This is a big offseason for Connor as he approaches the last year of his entry level contract. The 2024 Calder winner put up 23 goals and 44 assists for 67 points in 82 games last season. It was a trying sophomore year for himself and the Blackhawks as they once again finished 31st in the NHL. 

Connor becomes eligible on July 1st to sign a contract extension with the Hawks. One would think it would be smarter for him to hold off until next summer to extend and hope for a breakout season this upcoming year. Bedard is taking a different approach this offseason having skipped playing in the World Championships with Team Canada to focus on development. 

It will be crucial for himself and the Blackhawks team as a whole to take a step forward as they look to start progressing out of this rebuild. Where he and the team are at this time next year will dictate what that contract extension looks like.