Connor Bedard Is on the Verge of a Blockbuster Contract — Here's Where Things Stand

Connor Bedard is at the most pivotal crossroads of his young career. The Chicago Blackhawks franchise center is putting up superstar numbers in the final year of his entry-level deal, nursing his way back from injury, and staring down one of the most anticipated contract negotiations in modern NHL history — all at just 20 years old.

Connor Bedard 2025–26 Season Stats

Connor Bedard is currently averaging a point-per-game pace with 23 goals and 30 assists through 44 games for the Chicago Blackhawks this season. The numbers represent a massive leap in production and have only intensified the urgency surrounding his next contract.

The Injury Setbacks That Have Defined His Season

Bedard suffered a shoulder injury that placed him on injured reserve, with the team noting he wouldn't need surgery but would be sidelined until the calendar flipped to 2026. Upon return, he notched two assists in his first game back, and despite not taking faceoffs while his shoulder recovered, he reasserted himself as the centerpiece of Chicago's offense. This follows a jaw fracture in his sophomore season that also cost him significant time — making durability a key talking point heading into negotiations.

The Contract Situation: A $12M+ Question

NHL Insider Frank Seravalli speculated that if Bedard's next deal runs eight years, it will pay him somewhere in the range of $12.5 to $15 million against the salary cap. Bedard was eligible for an extension on July 1st but both sides opted to wait, which means the deal will now be more expensive given his on-ice success.

Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson confirmed talks are underway, stating: "We are talking. He's committed to Chicago and wants to be here long-term, and we obviously want him here long-term — there's mutual agreement there."

Former NHL executive Craig Button offered insight on the leverage at play: "If I was the agent, I wouldn't be signing Connor Bedard to any extension, because he doesn't get any benefit by signing the extension. He's going to make the same money and get the same money on July 1 the next year. Salary cap going up — this is on the Chicago Blackhawks to get it better."

Bedard's Next Game and Team Outlook

Bedard's next game is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, when the Blackhawks travel to face the Nashville Predators. Chicago sits 22–26 in the Western Conference's Central Division, firmly in rebuild mode but showing flashes of the future with Bedard and emerging prospects around him.

Why Chicago Has Everything to Lose

Bedard will be a restricted free agent on July 1, 2026 — meaning if another team tried to sign him, the Blackhawks would be able to match the contract. However, the pressure to avoid offer sheet drama is enormous, and GM Davidson is expected to push for a long-term deal well before that deadline arrives.

NHL analyst Pierre LeBrun summarized the stakes best: "Bedard has all the leverage, no matter where it goes. For five years, I could see something in the $10 million AAV range, or just above. For seven or eight years, you're looking more at the $12 million-plus range."

With 53 points in 44 games and a record-breaking contract looming, Connor Bedard is quickly becoming the most important unsigned player in hockey.