Connor Bedard knows the jump from junior hockey to the NHL is not easy. The Chicago Blackhawks star recently spoke to TSN about that adjustment. He admitted there are moments of frustration along the way.

The interviewer asked him about adapting his game. Things that worked in junior do not always work in the pros. Bedard was honest in his answer.

"I think just in a competitive environment you are gonna get frustrated with anything," Bedard said. He also mentioned fellow young player Andrew Cristall in his response. "But I think for myself and I know for him the confidence is always there to try stuff and make plays."

For Bedard, holding onto creativity is the key. "That's what we do, we can't lose that creativity and confidence," he said. "We are not the same type of players. It's just find that balance like I said but you always keep that confidence."

The transition has gone well for Bedard so far. The Blackhawks took him first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. He made an instant impact in his debut season.

Bedard won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 2023-24. He scored 22 goals and added 39 assists for 61 points. That came despite missing time with a jaw injury.

His third season was even better. Bedard set career highs with 30 goals and 45 assists in 69 games. The 75-point campaign showed he is starting to figure out the pro game.

The mental side has been just as important as the physical. Bedard's hockey IQ allows him to make plays before defenders can react. He has also bulked up to handle the heavier NHL game at 5-foot-10.

Differing Reports Emerging on Connor Bedard Contract Talks

Bedard has more than just on-ice matters to think about this summer. His entry-level contract is up. A massive payday is coming.

The Blackhawks and Bedard's camp have resumed contract talks. GM Kyle Davidson wants to lock up his franchise player. But reports are mixed on what the deal might look like.

Insider David Pagnotta shared his thoughts on Oilersnation Everyday. "I think if Connor Bedard goes full term, he's probably 16, 17 [million AAV], in that range," he said. "I don't think he's going full term, I think it'll be shorter."

A long-term deal of seven or eight years would carry a bigger number. But it would also push the next contract talk far down the road. With the salary cap rising fast, that kind of deal could age very well.

A shorter four-year deal would come in cheaper. It would also keep Bedard as a restricted free agent next time around. That could be his agent playing the long game.

Either way, the deal is getting done. Both sides have shown clear interest in an agreement. It just may take a chunk of the summer to finalise.

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Written by

Sahil Prashar

Edited by

Sahil Prashar