SPORTS-HKN-BLACKHAWKS-BEDARD-FILEPIC-TB Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard plays against the Utah Mammoth on March, 9, 2026, at the United Center in Chicago. Josh Boland/Chicago Tribune/TNS Chicago IL USA EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xChicagoxTribunex 178857389W JoshxBolandx krtphotoslive965001
SPORTS-HKN-BLACKHAWKS-BEDARD-FILEPIC-TB Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard plays against the Utah Mammoth on March, 9, 2026, at the United Center in Chicago. Josh Boland/Chicago Tribune/TNS Chicago IL USA EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xChicagoxTribunex 178857389W JoshxBolandx krtphotoslive965001
The Chicago Blackhawks signed forward Connor Bedard to a five-year contract extension on July 18, 2026. General manager Kyle Davidson credited Bedard for exceeding the club's expectations ever since Chicago drafted him.
The deal holds a $15 million salary cap hit each season, worth $75 million in total. It runs from the 2026-27 season to the 2030-31 season, and Davidson seemed satisfied with the investment.
“Connor has continuously defied our expectations since being drafted and has quickly established himself as an elite player in the NHL,” said Davidson, as per an article from the NHL.
March 7, 2025, Chicago, Il, USA: The Chicago Blackhawks Connor Bedard 98 is introduced as the No. 1 star of the game after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to beat the Utah Hockey Club, 4-3, at the United Center on March 7, 2025, in Chicago. Chicago USA - ZUMAm67_ 20250307_zaf_m67_018 Copyright: xJohnxJ.xKimx
March 7, 2025, Chicago, Il, USA: The Chicago Blackhawks Connor Bedard 98 is introduced as the No. 1 star of the game after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to beat the Utah Hockey Club, 4-3, at the United Center on March 7, 2025, in Chicago. Chicago USA - ZUMAm67_ 20250307_zaf_m67_018 Copyright: xJohnxJ.xKimx
He said the 21-year-old has quickly entered the list of the NHL's most complete players. That growth shows how far Bedard has come in just three seasons.
“He utilizes all aspects of his game to not only be a constant threat but to make the players around him better every time he steps on the ice," added Davidson.
Davidson also pointed to Bedard's all-around game. Beyond that scoring, the GM said, Bedard makes his linemates better every time he plays. That same impact he has on others is one of the reasons why Chicago held on to him.
“Connor’s strong work ethic and determination to always improve his game have set an extraordinary standard for our young core, and we’re excited for the incredible impact he’ll have in this next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.”
Looking ahead, Davidson did add that he expects Bedard to lead the next season of the Blackhawks' rebuild.
The extension is set to keep the 2023 first overall pick in Chicago through his prime years. This comes in right after his best season, 2025-2026. Bedard scored his career highs of 30 goals, 45 assists, and 75 points in 69 games.
Bedard's journey through the league
Bedard has moved up quickly ever since Chicago drafted him first overall in 2023. He then won the Calder Trophy as top rookie in 2023-24. That same year, he led all first-year skaters with 22 goals and 61 points.
According to ESPN, his results have grown every year since then. Bedard reached 200 career points on April 6, 2026. That itself made him the first Blackhawks player to hit the mark before turning 21, and only the 13th in NHL history to do it at that age.
After spending three NHL seasons, Bedard has scored 203 points in 219 games in total. He has also played for Canada internationally. Bedard helped the country win back-to-back World Junior gold medals. He then earned the tournament MVP honors in 2023 after setting a national scoring record in the event.
His journey from Calder Trophy rookie to a $75 million contract in three years is the growth Davidson explained when they moved to sign Bedard for the long term.
Share your thoughts on Davidson's take on Bedard.
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Written by
Aadhya Nalla
Edited by
Soheli Tarafdar