If Chicago intends to have Bedard on the pro club,
they'll be signing somebody with a minimum of 7 years NHL experience... probably 2-3 guys.
It's a very distinct thing in the NHL, mentorship.
One of these guys is going to have a good amount of center-play and face-off experience.
(I don't care what coaches they bring in... they need a solid vet to sit next to him to discuss two-way NHL-level play and draws... and best case, a linemate.)
(This said, they - technically - do have Tyler Johnson under contract for one more year... but, FFS, spend the cash and bring in somebody better.)
Past clubs have ensured they had good face-off/two-way centers on board for their key rookies.
re: McDavid / Eichel / Crosby / Matthews
In 2015, the Oilers signed Mark Letestu on July 2nd... the day before inking McDavid.
While not an enormous signing, Letestu led the Oilers in face-offs that year:
https://www.nhl.com/stats/skaters?re...=0&pageSize=50
https://www.capfriendly.com/signings/oilers
Also in 2015, the Sabres traded for Ryan O'Reilly on June 26th... the same day as the draft they took Eichel at #2.
The extended ROR on July 3rd, two days after formally signing Jack Eichel:
https://www.capfriendly.com/signings/sabres
In 2005, the Penguins were fortunate enough to have Mario Lemieux on roster and be around the big club, so not an issue.
In 2016, the Leafs were set having extended Kadri on April 13. They wont he lottery on April 30th and signed Matthews for his rookie year in July.
In 2005, the Penguins were fortunate enough to have Mario Lemieux on roster and be around the big club, so not an issue.