Blackhawks sign No. 1 draft pick Connor Bedard to entry-level contract on 18th birthday

Bedard was selected first overall by the Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft.
The Blackhawks signed Bedard, viewed as a generational talent, to a three-year entry-level contract.
Bedard is expected to immediately join the Blackhawks roster for the upcoming season.
The signing comes on Bedard's 18th birthday, the first day he was eligible to sign a contract.
Blackhawks management hopes Bedard will become a franchise cornerstone and energize the team and its fans.