GM Kyle Davidson checked with Connor Bedard before bringing star free agent to Chicago

Here's what went into the decision.

Before the Chicago Blackhawks brought Patrick Kane back into the fold, general manager Kyle Davidson made sure his franchise centerpiece was on board first.

Speaking on CHGO Blackhawks, Davidson revealed he called Bedard directly to gauge how he felt about the idea before it ever became real.

The host on the show noted Bedard could barely contain himself once he heard what was being floated.

Davidson explained that having those conversations with a team's best players, both current and future leaders, matters.

He wants their input because it's informed, relevant information that plays into decisions shaping the direction of the franchise.

It's a small window into how much weight Bedard already carries in Chicago at just 21 years old.

Bedard signed a five year, $75 million extension on July 18, and Kane's two year, $16 million deal to return to Chicago followed just days later.

That timeline stands out given how often Davidson had brushed off questions about a possible Kane reunion since trading him to the New York Rangers back in 2023.

The sudden shift suggests this had been in motion behind the scenes for a while.

Davidson was quick to draw a line between asking for Bedard's thoughts and letting him make the call.

He made clear that getting an opinion doesn't mean he acts on everything he hears.

It's one more piece of information that factors into a decision that ultimately falls on him to weigh and make.

Bedard is expected to miss the start of next season while recovering from injury, so the two won't actually share the ice together right away.

Still, knowing Bedard was consulted before the move adds an interesting layer to how Chicago's rebuild is being run behind closed doors.

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