Plenty of folks have doubted Connor Bedard's love and commitment to the Chicago Blackhawks since they made him the number one pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. 

That narrative continues to be proven false, and Bedard's latest media zoom proves that. Just a couple of days after signing his 5 year extension with a cap hit of $15 million, he could not be more thrilled with his current situation as the face of the franchise. 

When asked about the potential to be the captain of the Blackhawks, Bedard's answer laid out all of his emotions. 

"It would be special for sure," Bedard said. "Just getting to play for the Blackhawks in general, without any of that, is the best thing in the world. If I were to become a captain, it would be so special, and something I wouldn't take for granted for a second."

Bedard went on to say he'd be so happy for anyone named to be the captain, but he certainly welcomes the idea. Saying that playing for the Blackhawks is the best thing in the world, whether he's the captain or not, tells you everything you need to know about his feelings for the franchise that selected him first overall. 

There was offer sheet drama during his negotiations. Leo Carlsson of the Anaheim Ducks signed an offer sheet with a cap hit of $18 million with the Philadelphia Flyers before it was matched, but Bedard never pivoted from what he wanted in Chicago. 

"I'm very happy with the amount of money I'm making. It's a lot," Bedard said. "The offer sheet is going to be a different value. That didn't change anything I was thinking. Chicago is really the only place I want to play."

Make no mistake about it, and Bedard acknowledged it, a lot of money is being invested in one player. However, it is right on par with the percentage of the cap that top players around the league have historically had, and he is grateful for it. 

Bedard said that he believes that the team is also happy with the deal because it will allow them to keep building around him as the star player. He gets a fortune to stay with the team he wants to work for, while the organization is not completely handcuffed.

 "I've said it so much: Chicago is the only place I want to play. I'm very happy to get this deal signed."

Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay up to date on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting on the article below on THN.com or by creating your own post in our community forum.