Blackhawks' Connor Bedard Set for Massive Contract Extension

The young star is poised to cash in after a breakout season in Chicago.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:54pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic motion and raw power of a hockey player scoring a goal, conveying the excitement and anticipation surrounding Connor Bedard's upcoming contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks.The Blackhawks' young star Connor Bedard is poised for a massive contract extension after a breakout season, signaling the team's commitment to building around their franchise centerpiece.Chicago Today

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard is due for a lucrative contract extension this offseason after a career-best 30-goal, 75-point campaign. Bedard, the first overall pick in 2023, has established himself as the franchise's centerpiece, and GM Kyle Davidson is expected to give him a deal that reflects his value. While the exact terms are still to be determined, industry experts predict Bedard's new contract could fall in the $13-14 million per year range, potentially on an 8-year term.

Why it matters

Bedard's extension is a pivotal moment for the rebuilding Blackhawks, as they look to lock up their young star long-term and build a competitive roster around him. The team has already secured team-friendly deals with other core players, but Bedard's contract will be the most significant of Davidson's tenure so far.

The details

Bedard, 21, is coming off a season in which he set career highs with 30 goals and 75 points despite missing 13 games due to injury. His breakout campaign has put him in line for a massive raise from the $925,000 he made on his entry-level deal. Comparable contracts like Logan Cooley's 8-year, $10 million extension and Auston Matthews' 5-year, $11.6 million deal provide a framework for Bedard's potential earnings, though his camp will likely push for an even higher annual average value given his status as a franchise cornerstone.

  • Bedard's entry-level contract is set to expire this summer.
  • The Blackhawks are expected to prioritize getting Bedard's extension done early in the offseason.

The players

Connor Bedard

A 21-year-old center who was the first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Bedard is the Blackhawks' franchise player and is poised for a massive contract extension after a career-best season.

Kyle Davidson

The Blackhawks' general manager, who will be tasked with signing Bedard to a long-term deal that keeps the young star in Chicago.

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What they’re saying

“I'm easy. I just wanted to play the year and focus on the ice. I know I want to be here. It'll get done when it gets done.”

— Connor Bedard

What’s next

The Blackhawks and Bedard's representatives are expected to negotiate a contract extension in the coming weeks, with the goal of getting a deal done before the start of the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

Securing Connor Bedard's long-term future is the top priority for the Blackhawks this offseason. The team has built a strong young core, and Bedard's extension will be a critical step in their ongoing rebuild, as they look to surround the franchise center with the talent needed to return to contention.