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Connor Bedard Reveals Frustration as Blackhawks Miss Playoffs

2026-06-24 · Connor Bedard · Player Focus

Connor Bedard Reveals Frustration as Blackhawks Miss Playoffs

Connor Bedard is frustrated as the Chicago Blackhawks missed the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

What's Next for Connor Bedard?

The Blackhawks' management team is confident they'll return to playoff success with Bedard at the helm. Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson has a new contract extension for Bedard as a top priority.

Why it Matters for the Blackhawks

Bedard admitted he hasn't watched much postseason hockey, knowing his team hasn't experienced that level of competition. He said it pisses him off, wanting to get the Blackhawks over the hump and back into Stanley Cup Playoff contention. The 2023 NHL Draft first overall pick will be entering his fourth NHL season.

Contract Extension Looms

Bedard is eligible to become a restricted free agent on July 1, but the Blackhawks hope to get a deal done before then. Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz said it's up to the players to step up their games for the team to compete. Wirtz mentioned Bedard needs to take another step, but he's that competitive. The Blackhawks' pipeline and prospects are trending positively, according to Wirtz.

Road to Stanley Cup Contention

The Carolina Hurricanes won the 2026 Stanley Cup on Sunday evening, a reminder of the Blackhawks' current status. Bedard knows any team can win a postseason series once they get in. He cited examples of teams winning series they probably shouldn't have, emphasizing the importance of making the playoffs. The Blackhawks are rebuilding, and Bedard is the face of the franchise, taken first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. Davidson recently received a multi-year contract extension, and now he must secure Bedard's future with the team. Bedard's development and the collective improvement of the players will be crucial for the team's success. The Blackhawks hope to return to Stanley Cup contention, and Bedard is eager to lead them there. As the 2026 offseason begins, the focus is on Bedard's contract extension and the team's journey back to the playoffs.

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