SerpApi.Org
Connor Bedard's new contract with the Chicago Blackhawks answered the biggest question about his future, and attention has already shifted to whether he will also become the franchise's next captain.
The 21-year-old signed a five-year, $75 million extension over the weekend and used his first media availability since the announcement to reiterate that he never wanted to play anywhere else.
“Like I’ve said so much, and it’s not anything fake, Chicago’s the only place I want to play,” Bedard said. “Just seeing the growth of our young guys and just how good of a group we are, in the room how tight it is, how much fun we have, I’m very happy to get this deal signed, just focus on the team and excited to get back and get going.”
After Bedard's agent already discussed the lack of an impact of Leo Carlsson's record-setting deal in his client's approach to contract negotiations, Bedard himself spoke about it on Monday.
“I’m very happy with the amount of money I’m making,” Bedard said. “(Carlsson's contract) didn’t change anything I was thinking.”
Although the extension is signed and Bedard will stay as the face of the Blackhawks for the next five seasons, Chicago is still without a captain after trading Nick Foligno last season. That has led to speculation about whether the former No. 1 overall pick will receive the role.
Bedard admitted it would be a special honor but emphasized that he wouldn't be bothered if another player gets the role.
“It would be special, for sure,” he said. “Just getting to play for the Blackhawks organization in general, without any of that, is the best thing in the world. If anyone would become a captain, if it’s someone else, I’d be just as happy for them. But if I was able to get that honor, it would be so special. I know it’s something I wouldn’t take for granted for a second. But we’ve got so many guys in the room that can lead. If I’m chosen for that, that would be unbelievable, for sure.”
Chicago missed the playoffs by 18 points last season, but Bedard said the team's expectations have changed.
“We want to take a big step this year; we want to be a playoff team,” he said.
Bedard will enter his fourth season in the NHL having racked up 203 points in 219 regular-season games with the Blackhawks.
Related: Maple Leafs' Stance on Morgan Rielly Trade Emerges After First Wave of Free Agency
Related: Connor Bedard's Stance on Leo Carlsson's Contract Revealed After Blackhawks Extension
