Blackhawks GM Reveals He Asked Bedard Before Patrick Kane Signing
Speaking on CHGO Blackhawks, Davidson revealed he specifically talked to Connor Bedard about the idea of signing Kane before it happened. The host noted Bedard "almost jumped through the phone" when he heard the idea.
"I think it's important to have those conversations, especially with your best players, current and future leaders," Davidson said. "You want their input. It's good information. Just like anyone else at your disposal, you want those opinions that are informed, that are important to the path you're going down."
A Deal That Came Together Fast
Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million extension on July 18, and Kane's two-year, $16 million deal to return followed just days later. Davidson had previously seemed reluctant every time he was publicly asked about a Kane reunion since trading him to the New York Rangers in 2023, which made the sudden turnaround all the more notable.
Full answer from Connor Bedard on Patrick Kane👀 pic.twitter.com/LSAUdmXj5P
— CHGO Blackhawks (@CHGO_Blackhawks) July 20, 2026
Bedard didn't hide his excitement once the signing became real, telling reporters two days later that Kane's return "would be incredible." He went further on TSN's OverDrive, crediting Kane's ability to elevate anyone around him. "Probably the best hands ever in the history of hockey and one of the best passers, some of the best IQ," Bedard said. "If it's me or whoever is playing on his line, it's going to make that player so much better."
Kane reciprocated the praise, telling reporters Bedard's playmaking might be unlike anything he's seen in nearly two decades in the league. "This will be my 20th year in the league, and I'll probably see passes I've never seen before by playing with him," Kane said.
Consulting Bedard
Davidson was careful to draw a line between consulting Bedard and letting him make the call. "That doesn't mean that we agree or I act on everything he said or any opinion that I get," Davidson said. "It's information that goes into the decision-making process that is up to me to weigh accordingly."
Elliotte Friedman: Connor Bedard obviously had indicated he wasn't interested in an offer sheet, he signed for 15 [million], but I think what two negotiations that's affected are Cutter Gauthier and also Adam Fantilli - NHL Tonight (8/7)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 11, 2026
Bedard is expected to miss the first month of next season recovering from injury, meaning the two won't actually share the ice together right away.
