Is Connor Bedard Hinting at a Chicago Exit or Here to Stay?
Connor Bedard is once again at the center of speculation, but this time, it’s not because of his on-ice performance. The 19-year-old Chicago Blackhawks phenom set social media ablaze with a cryptic Instagram post—a photo of himself celebrating after his recent overtime winner against Utah, accompanied by a single home emoji.
This simple post has sparked an intense debate: Is Bedard signaling his commitment to Chicago, or is he hinting at a potential departure?
The Pressure on Bedard and the Blackhawks
Bedard’s rookie season has been a rollercoaster. While his talent is undeniable, his struggles in recent games have drawn criticism. After 65 games, he has only 17 goals, ranking 105th in the league. In his last 11 games, he has managed just one goal, leading to backlash from fans.
One particularly harsh critique from a fan suggested that Bedard needs to focus on his skating:
> “I realize that Bedard is just 19 and playing on a horrible team, but he was terrible in the Kings game—terrible in all three zones. He should visit Donato’s skating coach in the off-season. He needs to get faster, stronger, smarter.”
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Despite the criticism, Bedard is still seen as the future of the franchise. The Blackhawks have been in a rebuilding phase for years, failing to win more than 40 games in a season for the past eight years. While fans are frustrated, many believe Bedard can be the key to turning things around.
Reading Between the Lines of His Instagram Post
The “home” emoji in Bedard’s post has led to multiple interpretations. Some believe it means he’s staying in Chicago for the long haul. One optimistic fan commented:
> “This team’s future is bright with the youth movement, and he is a big part of that. No superstar runs from a tough situation. My guess is he says this is his home with that emoji.”
On the other hand, others see it as a sign that he’s looking for a way out:
> “Must mean he’s searching for a new home because he hates his life in Chicago and cannot wait to be on a new team.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Bedard is in the final year of his three-year, $13.35 million rookie contract. While no trade talks have surfaced, fans are already speculating about potential destinations, with some suggesting a move to his hometown Vancouver Canucks.
However, some believe this isn’t about leaving at all. Another fan theorized:
> “Lol. It means his agent and KD are working on an extension to be signed this summer, and he’s happy about the numbers he’s hearing.”
Will Bedard Stay or Go?
As the season winds down, all eyes will be on the Blackhawks’ front office. Will they secure their young star with a lucrative extension, or could Bedard become the latest big-name player to leave Chicago?
One thing is certain—his cryptic post has fans talking, and only time will tell whether he’s here to stay or looking for a fresh start elsewhere.
What do you think? Is Bedard hinting at an exit, or is he committed to fighting for Chicago’s future?