Bedard's Future Now Certain As Blackhawks Pass Key Deadline

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Graham Montgomery
November 5, 2023 (0:14)

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The NHL has a rule that makes it so players on entry-level contracts can play nine games in the NHL in a given season without their contract kicking in. If the player is then sent back to their junior team or the AHL depending on where they were drafted from, the contract will not kick in until the following season. The Leafs did this with Fraser Minten just this season. Now it looks as though the Blackhawks will not be making such a move with two of their rookies.

Bedard, Korchinski play 10th Game Of The Season

The Blackhawks have arguable the most anticipated rookie of the year in Connor Bedard. One lesser known name on the team is Kevin Korchinski, a defenseman who was drafted by the Hawks in 2022. Both players have played every game of the season so far and with tonight being the Hawks' 10th game of the season, both will officially burn off the first year of their entry-level contracts.

It should come as no surprise to hockey fans that Bedard will not be playing junior hockey again. At this point he is an NHL player. Korchinski might surprise a lot of fans though. Despite being drafted 7th overall, there was never a ton of hype surrounding him and defenders usually take longer to make the NHL. The Blackhawks clearly have a lot of faith in him though and he's actually looked like one of their better blueliners this season, especially on offense.

Bedard Keeps Scoring

Connor was stuck on just one goal for several games in a row but now the goals just keep coming. He scored again tonight, continuing his hot streak. Bedard now has goals in three consecutive games and four of his last five.

When Bedard's entry-level deal is done, he will be due a pretty big pay raise.