Bedard, who has one year left on his entry-level contract, will become eligible for an extension July 1. He made it clear during exit interviews Thursday that he intends to sign one.

Chicago Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard expressed his commitment to the Hawks’ future despite a season full of challenges.

Much of the buzz coming out of the press conference was centered on Connor Bedard, the franchise player of the Blackhawks, and his future in Chicago. The 19-year-old just completed his second NHL season with 67 points in 82 games and responded directly to recent speculation suggesting he might want out of Chicago.