Connor Bedard Signs Five-Year Extension with Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks secured a key piece of their future with Connor Bedard’s five-year, $75 million contract extension. This deal keeps him with the team until the end of the 2030-31 season. Bedard, a prominent 21-year-old center, views this extension as a natural progression.

“Obviously it’s a relief and nice to get it done for myself and the team,” said Bedard in a recent video conference. “There was no stress involved. It didn’t take many calls or meetings. Chicago is the only place I want to play.”

Despite signing, Bedard will miss the start of the season. He is recovering from left shoulder surgery after an injury in Vancouver. This is the third time in his four NHL seasons he won’t play a full season. He remains focused on his recovery.

“No one wants to get hurt,” Bedard commented about his injury. “I approach it one day at a time.”

Bedard holds several records for players under 21, including 203 points in 219 career games. Last season, he scored a career-best 75 points in 69 games. His performance gave him an edge in contract discussions.

There was speculation that Bedard waited for other top draft picks, like Leo Carlsson, to set contract precedents. Carlsson signed a $90 million offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers which the Anaheim Ducks matched. Bedard, however, made it clear his decision was independently made.

“The offer sheet is different,” Bedard noted. “It didn’t change anything for me.”

Bedard’s new contract includes an average annual value of $15 million, the highest in Blackhawks history and third in the NHL. Bedard expressed satisfaction with his earnings, stating it was a memorable birthday gift.

Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson maintained a strong roster while acquiring new talent like Bowen Byram, Cole Smith, and Ian Cole. Bedard reached out to welcome them, demonstrating leadership.

“Getting Byram, he’s going to be one of the best D-men,” Bedard said, praising the new additions. “Ian Cole probably landed the most cross-checks on me, but now he’s my teammate.”

Bedard has shown qualities of a leader and is open to future captaincy. “It would be special for sure,” he acknowledged about the possibility.

There’s speculation about Patrick Kane’s potential return to the Blackhawks. Bedard voiced his hopes for Kane’s return, highlighting the positive impact it would have.

“We’d be so excited to have a player like that,” Bedard said. “He would make us a way better team.”