Connor Bedard signs contract extension with Blackhawks

Although he was eligible to sign a contract extension since July 1 of last year, Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks have finally agreed to a new deal. The two sides inked a new five-year contract worth $75 million, carrying a $15 million cap hit per season. This will keep him locked up through the 2030-31 season, after which he will be eligible to become an unrestricted free agent.

“Connor has continuously defied our expectations since being drafted and has quickly established himself as an elite player in the NHL,” said general manager Kyle Davidson in an official statement. “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. 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.”

Bedard, the first overall pick of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, has 75 goals and 203 points in his first 219 NHL games. However, he will have to wait a bit to play on his new contract as he recovers from shoulder surgery earlier this month. He should return to the lineup in early November.

With Davidson’s biggest offseason task completed, one wonders if there is still another move besides re-signing the remaining restricted free agents. Does he try to find some offense to help during Bedard’s absence, like Patrick Kane or Shane Wright? We’ll see.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow