Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard has agreed to a five year contract extension with the team. The deal is worth $75 million and carries a $15 million annual salary cap hit. It begins with the 2026-27 season and runs through the 2030-31 season.
Bedard, who turned 21 earlier this month, was a restricted free agent after completing his entry level contract. The extension keeps the young center with the Blackhawks for the long term. General manager Kyle Davidson said Bedard has quickly become an elite player in the NHL since being selected first overall in the 2023 draft.
Bedard, who turned 21 earlier this month, was a restricted free agent after completing his entry level contract. The extension keeps the young center with the Blackhawks for the long term. General manager Kyle Davidson said Bedard has quickly become an elite player in the NHL since being selected first overall in the 2023 draft.
The new contract provides stability for both the player and the organization as the Blackhawks continue their rebuilding process. Bedard has expressed a desire to stay in Chicago and help the team win. The deal positions him as one of the higher paid players in the league moving forward.
Bedard recently underwent surgery on his left shoulder. He is expected to miss the start of the upcoming season while recovering. The injury occurred during off season skating activities.
Bedard has already made history with the franchise by reaching the 200 point mark at a young age. The new agreement allows him to continue developing in Chicago without the uncertainty of free agency in the near term. Both sides have described the process as positive and focused on the future.
The Blackhawks finished the 2025-26 season with a record of 29-39-14. They remain outside the playoff picture but have shown improvement. Bedard’s continued presence is seen as central to the team’s progress in the coming years.
Details of the contract include standard elements for a player of his age and status. It provides financial security for Bedard while giving the Blackhawks cost certainty under the salary cap. The team has flexibility to add talent around him as the roster evolves.