Blackhawks sign Bedard to five-year, $75M contract
Bedard commits to Blackhawks
Connor Bedard has agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks, the team announced on Saturday afternoon. This new agreement carries an average annual value of $15 million. The deal was finalized a day after Bedard’s 21st birthday and will keep him with the Chicago team through the 2030-31 season. This extension buys out only one year of his unrestricted free agency.
This contract ranks as the third largest in the league based on average annual value. It is surpassed only by Anaheim Ducks centre Leo Carlsson, who has an $18 million average annual value, and Minnesota Wild winger Kirill Kaprizov, at $17 million.
Impact on the team and future outlook
Kyle Davidson, the Blackhawks general manager, expressed satisfaction with the agreement. He noted that Bedard has consistently exceeded expectations since being drafted and has quickly established himself as a top player in the NHL. Davidson highlighted Bedard’s ability to be a constant threat and to elevate the performance of his teammates. Bedard’s work ethic and dedication to improvement have set a high standard for the team’s young core, according to Davidson, who anticipates a significant impact from Bedard in the upcoming chapter of Blackhawks hockey.
The possibility of Bedard’s contract extension has been a key discussion point since he was selected as the No. 1 pick in 2023. His second contract was considered crucial for Davidson’s rebuilding strategy. The focus on Bedard’s contract intensified over time, especially with the potential for an offer sheet, a scenario that became more realistic after Leo Carlsson signed one with the Philadelphia Flyers, which the Anaheim Ducks subsequently matched on July 9.
Danny Wirtz, Blackhawks chairman and CEO, stated late in the 2025-26 season that the team’s intention was to secure Bedard for a long tenure. Bedard has been a driving force behind the team’s top-five attendance, jersey sales, and overall relevance in Chicago and beyond during his first three seasons, despite the team’s struggles on the ice.
Bedard’s performance and leadership
Bedard demonstrated an elevated level of play during the most recent season. While he was the team’s top performer in his initial two seasons, he further solidified his position in 2025-26. He recorded 19 goals and 25 assists in his first 31 games before a shoulder injury interrupted his season. Following his injury, his scoring pace shifted, with 11 goals and 20 assists over his subsequent 38 games.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Bedard also embraced a leadership role. After the Blackhawks traded veterans Nick Foligno, Connor Murphy, and Jason Dickinson at the trade deadline, Bedard was named an alternate captain. There is a possibility he could be named captain later this offseason. Bedard expressed that becoming captain would be an honour and extremely special, acknowledging the many leaders within the team.
Bedard consistently downplayed contract discussions throughout the season, reiterating his loyalty to the organization and his confidence in Davidson’s rebuilding strategy. With his commitment to a longer future with the Blackhawks, winning is expected to become his primary focus. He has previously stated his desire for the Blackhawks to be a playoff team next season.
Bedard’s recent shoulder injury and subsequent surgery were factors that could have influenced negotiations. He is anticipated to return to play in early November.
Source: tsn.ca
