Button and Friedman are suggesting that Bedard might be angling for a way out of Chicago:
Then Friedman added this:
Then Friedman added this:
"Why would anyone sign before that? Just to see maybe if anything changes?" Friedman said. "Now, if you get an idea that the rules aren't going to change, then you don't do it. But I did have someone say to me (that) for a star, for one of the top players - and Bedard is the franchise player in Chicago - you might wait to see if any rules change."
A new CBA could alter offer sheet dynamics and salary structures, and place the Blackhawks in a difficult spot if other teams make offers to their emerging star.