Connor Bedard has maintained a steady mindset as the Chicago Blackhawks closed out another difficult season, finishing with a 25-46-11 record and placing last in the Central Division. Despite the team‘s struggles, Bedard has continued to develop his skills and embraces his part in the franchise’s ongoing rebuild efforts. Over two <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL seasons, he has appeared in 150 games and accumulated 128 points, including 23 goals and 44 assists during the 2024–25 campaign.
Although Bedard’s personal statistics have improved, the Blackhawks failed to reach the playoffs once again, allowing an average of 3.56 goals per game while struggling offensively to keep pace with their competition. Throughout these challenges, Bedard has remained optimistic about his role and the team’s future prospects.
Bedard Discusses His Relationship with the Blackhawks and Contract Status
In conversations about his future with the Blackhawks, Bedard has expressed confidence in the organization and has kept communication positive. Speaking with the Chicago Sun-Times, he said,
“You talk here and there. It’s all been positive. There’s a good relationship there, so that will get done when it gets done.”
Currently, Bedard is under a three-year contract signed in July 2023, carrying a $950,000 cap hit and set to expire after the 2025–26 season. With one year remaining on this deal beyond the current season, both Bedard and team management appear comfortable with the arrangement.
Focus on Growth Amid Playoff Absence
Bedard acknowledged the disappointment of missing the playoffs but highlighted the opportunities it presents for player development. In an interview with The Athletic, he said,
“Everyone wants to be in the playoffs. That sucks, but in a way you can take a lot of time to improve.”
The extended offseason gives younger players valuable time to enhance their skills, which is important for the Blackhawks’ rebuilding strategy. Bedard also emphasized the strong connection between the team and its supporters, stating,
“We have such a great fan base and organization, and they’ve been the reason I’ve got to live out my dream so far for two years. If we all show that appreciation, then it creates a better bond for everyone.”
Clarifying Contract Discussions and Long-Term Commitment
On April 17, during a sit-down with the Chicago Sun-Times, Bedard reinforced his commitment to the team and his positive relationship with the organization. “I love it here,” he said.
“I have a great relationship with Kyle and everyone.”
He made clear that external speculation does not affect his outlook and that he trusts the Blackhawks’ direction as they rebuild toward success.
“I know I want to be here for a long time,”
Bedard confirmed.
The Blackhawks’ rebuild is focused on returning to the playoffs for the first time since the 2019–20 season, when they were eliminated in the opening round by the Vegas Golden Knights. Bedard’s steady development and dedication to the team are central to these aspirations, inspiring hope among fans and stakeholders as the organization works toward competitive resurgence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Connor Bedard?
A. In the game on Thursday night with the Chicago Blackhawks and San Jose Sharks, Connor Bedard of the Blackhawks received a 10-minute misconduct penalty for abusing the officials. The penalty was unusual because initially, nobody realized Bedard had been penalized.
Q. What surgery did Connor Bedard have?
A. HEALTH UPDATE: Connor Bedard has had a successful operation to fix his broken jaw. He is expected to be unable to play for about 6-8 weeks.
Q. What kind of surgery did Connor Bedard have?
A. Connor Bedard from the Blackhawks will miss about six to eight weeks following successful jaw surgery in Chicago. Team doctor Michael Terry shared this update on Wednesday. As a result, Bedard will not participate in the All-Star Game.
Q. What bone did Connor Bedard break?
A. Chicago Blackhawks rookie, Connor Bedard, will miss six to eight weeks due to a broken jaw. He underwent surgery to fix the fracture. Bedard got injured after a hit by defenseman Brendan Smith during the first period of a 4-2 defeat against the New Jersey Devils on January 5.