Connor Bedard’s Upcoming Contract Sparks Interest in NHL

CHICAGO, Ill. — Connor Bedard is aware when his fellow NHL players sign new contracts, but he isn’t letting that distract him. “I’m just playing. That stuff will happen when it happens,” he said on Monday.

As Bedard progresses through his third NHL season, the buzz around his pending contract looms large. He is due for a new deal starting in the 2026-27 season, and the financial landscape is changing with an increasing salary cap.

General manager Kyle Davidson of the Chicago Blackhawks has a clear picture of the team’s financial situation. The expected rise in the salary cap will provide him with ample cap space, but it won’t lead him to spend recklessly. His strategy focuses on nurturing talent from within.

While Bedard’s next contract is hotly debated, he is trying to keep his focus on the ice. “No, not at all, really,” he reiterated when asked about negotiations. “It’s not really something I’ve thought about at all.”

Through 22 games this season, Bedard has scored 13 goals, recorded 18 assists, and is proving to be a reliable two-way player. This performance is expected to influence the terms of his future contract.

Many analysts believe Bedard’s new deal could reach hefty figures. Comparisons have been drawn between him and other franchise players, with projections suggesting an eight-year extension worth $10.6 million a year.

His value has soared this season, with models estimating he could be worth around $16.9 million. However, as a restricted free agent, his negotiating leverage might still be limited.

Blackhawks’ chairman Danny Wirtz has stated the team plans to stay competitive financially, indicating that Bedard’s contract will be important for team dynamics moving forward. Davidson’s aim is to secure a deal that allows the Blackhawks to retain other budding talents as they rise in the league.

Regardless of the financial discussions, Bedard remains unbothered. “I’m not looking at that,” he said. “It’s not something that’s worrying me right now.”