It’s been a dazzling start to the season for Connor Bedard, who continues to elevate expectations in Chicago. The 20-year-old center has not only lit up the scoresheet but has also reignited conversations about his long-term future with the Blackhawks. Yet, as his play soars, contract talks between both sides have quietly taken a back seat.

Bedard’s rise has been both steady and historic, six goals and eight assists in 11 games, capped by a hat trick that cemented his place among the youngest players in franchise history to reach the 50-goal mark before turning 21. While his performance has sparked early Olympic chatter, negotiations surrounding his next deal remain paused, creating a rare calm around a generational talent.

According to insider Pierre LeBrun, Chicago initiated contact wi

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