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Blackhawks' Connor Beddard Decision Causes a Stir
Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Connor Bedard’s breakout season with the Chicago Blackhawks has placed him near the top of the NHL scoring race. That development, while positive, has brought a bigger spotlight to the 20-year-old forward, who found himself involved in a controversial situation on Sunday.

Ahead of last weekend's game against the Colorado Avalanche, there was an off-ice moment involving Bedard that took center stage and was enlarged by social media.

A hockey fan posted a video online showing Bedard walking near Ball Arena in Denver when a group of men approached with magazines featuring him on the cover.

One of them, filming the encounter, repeatedly asked Bedard for an autograph and insisted the items could be personalized.

“I’ve got to go,” Bedard can be heard saying while continuing to walk with a few of his teammates. The Blackhawks' star, however, eventually scribbled across two covers of the hockey magazines before moving on.

The clip quickly went viral after being posted to X with a caption that read, “Connor Bedard of the NHL Chicago Blackhawks shows zero humanity to this guy in what would have taken 2 seconds to be a decent person.

“These sellouts are just under a lot of pressure right now, and not at peace.”

The post generated thousands of reactions and ignited a broader debate about fan behavior with players and what these players should or shouldn't do for them.

Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) looks on during a stoppage of play.Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Most users defended Bedard, pointing out that the man asking for the signature appeared to be a reseller.

“A grown man begging another grown man for his autograph is beyond cringe,” one user posted.

Another added, “Not a fan or a kid, an adult looking for something to sell. He’s the (expletive), not Bedard.”

“Yeah you have never been an athlete,” an account posted. “These guys get 5-6 autographs a week and get mad when you refuse to sign. 2 hrs later it’s on the internet for sale.”

“Can understand a kid with their Mom or Dad but a grown man badgering a fella who just wants a little peace and quiet … no ? lol!” another account wrote.

One person made his opinion clear, writing, “This is the approach all athletes need to start taking with adult autograph seekers. When a kid does it, it’s special. This is harassment.”

“I stand with Bedard. He doesn’t owe you anything,” one user bluntly wrote.

The 20-year-old Bedard leads the Blackhawks with 31 points (13 goals, 18 assists) in 22 games. Chicago hosts the Minnesota Wild next on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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