Blackhawks Connor Bedard to influence a heavy exchange in NHL free agency

As the NHL free agency period looms on July 1, the rumor mill is spinning at full speed, with one particularly intriguing piece of news catching the eye of many.

Elliotte Friedman, a well-known NHL insider from Sportsnet, has dropped a significant hint about Jake Guentzel's next career move. According to Friedman, Guentzel, arguably the most coveted free agent this season, is likely to join the Chicago Blackhawks.

This potential shift is largely influenced by Blackhawks' General Manager Kyle Davidson and the young phenom Connor Bedard. Davidson has openly expressed his commitment to shedding the team's losing streak and creating a winning environment around Bedard. The goal is to accelerate Bedard's development by providing him with capable and experienced teammates.

On the Jeff Marek Show, also on Sportsnet, Friedman elaborated on his prediction regarding Guentzel's move:

Earlier in March, Guentzel was part of a major trade that saw him leave for two draft picks and four players, marking a significant overhaul for Carolina. His impact was immediate and profound, as he scored 8 goals and added 17 assists, contributing a total of 25 points in just 17 games during the regular and postseason.

Pierre LeBrun, another respected voice in hockey journalism, hinted at Guentzel's market potential, stating, "it very much sounds as though the most likely outcome at this stage is Guentzel going to the July 1 market." With the Blackhawks holding about $35 million in cap space, they stand out as a particularly strong candidate due to their financial flexibility.

For fans in Chicago, this off-season could be the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With a talent like Guentzel potentially on board, the Blackhawks could see a significant turnaround in their fortunes.

For more on this developing story, check out:

Stay tuned, Blackhawks fans. This off-season might just be the start of something special.

Source: Barstool Sports
Elliotte Friedman On NHL Network That The Blackhawks Are Going To Sign Jake Guentzel. Mailbag Blog