Sports

Patrick Kane would be the perfect wingman for Connor Bedard

Blackhawk Up · Jul 21, 2026 15:46 · 4 min read

Patrick Kane would be the perfect wingman for Connor Bedard — Feb 25, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) looks to pass the puck against Detroit Red Wings right wing Patrick Kane (88) during the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

You know Connor Bedard has extended with Chicago by now if you are a Blackhawks fan, unless you've been living in a cave over the weekend. Bedard extended for f

You know Connor Bedard has extended with Chicago by now if you are a Blackhawks fan, unless you've been living in a cave over the weekend. Bedard extended for five more years with the team at $75 million across that deal, as announced this past Saturday.

Bedard met with the Chicago media on Monday, discussing his contract extension. He was also asked about the elephant in the room, Patrick Kane. The potential return of Kane to the Blackhawks is the biggest story left of the offseason for this team. Bedard had some interesting comments on the prospect of playing with him.

Speaking on Kane's decision between signing with the Buffalo Sabres or Chicago in the presser, Bedard outlined his desire to play with the franchise legend. It is clear from his statement that Bedard loves the idea of playing with Kane. And why would he not? Kane is, by most accounts, the greatest player in the history of the franchise over the course of its centennial existence. Bedard grew up watching Kane work his "Showtime" magic during the Blackhawks' modern-day dynasty run that delivered this organization three Stanley Cups in six seasons from 2010-2015.

Patrick Kane would be the ideal linemate for Connor Bedard

Beyond nostalgic purposes, why should Chicago sign Kane? The biggest reason is that he would be able to get the best out of Bedard. Kane's game shares a lot of similarities with Bedard. They are both elite playmakers with eyes at the back of their heads. They both have silky hands that allow them to make creative plays that most can't pull off. They both have sniping ability with their dangerous wristers. And of course, they are both Calder-winning players who were drafted first overall by Chicago. Incredibly, they both amassed 203 points in their first 219 games with the team.

Another important trait the two players share is their high hockey IQ. Something that Bedard has lacked in his career thus far is a linemate who can consistently think the game at the same level that he can. Often, you will see Bedard make unreal plays to set up his teammates. Frustratingly, those chances created often go by the wayside as players have a hard time keeping up with the pace Bedard is able to generate opportunities. He is able to slow the game down with his ability to quickly process the play, just like Kane.

The goal for the Blackhawks next season is to make a postseason push. The moves made so far by Kyle Davidson, namely the Bowen Byram trade, reflect this vision. If this squad is to compete for a playoff berth, getting off to a good start is crucial. That will be difficult without Bedard at the onset of the campaign. Bringing Kane into the fold would make that tough initial stretch more bearable. And when Bedard comes back, Kane will be ready for him.

Davidson has rewarded Bedard with this big-ticket extension. The captaincy is all but confirmed to be his, as well. The next step should be finally getting him that coveted first-line winger to play alongside him. Bedard has not had that running mate through his first three seasons as this team navigated the early days of this rebuild. The expectations have since shifted. This 2026-2027 season will be the first of the Bedard era where winning is the main objective. Who better to help Bedard and this team get there than Kane?

Imagine the excitement this would bring to the fanbase. More importantly, imagine the boost it would provide this young team? Bedard is not the only young player who watched him as a kid. Kane would be perfect as an accomplished veteran who can bring these kids along in a way that past members have not been able to do. He would be able to elevate these guys in their development.

There are only so many options on the table during these dog days of the NHL offseason when it comes to making this team better. Signing Kane is the best move they can make. It does not cost any assets like making a trade would. As seen in the Byram deal, acquiring a top-six forward would require a similar type of package that involves giving up futures. Money is not a problem; the club still has over $14 million in salary cap space available after the Bedard deal.

The time is now to do right by Bedard as the 21-year-old heads into year four of his career. Bring Kane back to Chicago, where he belongs. It makes too much sense for this team. Davidson needs to do everything in his power to make it happen.