As Connor Bedard approaches his first major contract negotiation with the Chicago Blackhawks, speculation about its structure intensifies. Bedard, a third-year player making significant strides in the NHL, is projected to secure a lucrative deal as his entry-level contract nears its end in the 2026-27 season.
Key Factors Influencing Bedard’s Future Contract
- Market Dynamics: Bedard plays in a high-profile market like Chicago, which elevates his visibility.
- Rising Salary Cap: The NHL salary cap is expected to increase, creating additional financial resources for teams.
- Performance Metrics: Through 22 games this season, Bedard has recorded 31 points, showcasing his capabilities.
- Contract Comparisons: Recent contracts for comparable players, such as Logan Cooley, set a benchmark for his potential earnings.
Current Financial Landscape for the Blackhawks
The Blackhawks’ general manager, Kyle Davidson, faces the task of balancing Bedard’s future contract with the overall team finances. The organization has 15 players already under contract, totaling around $50 million in dedicated cap hits for next season.
Despite this, they are projected to be approximately $20 million below the salary cap floor. Consequently, securing Bedard’s contract without overextending could prove challenging.
Projected Value of Bedard’s Contract
While Bedard remains focused on his performance rather than negotiations, projections indicate he could command a significant salary. Numbers suggest a potential eight-year extension worth around $10.6 million annually, based on evaluations from sources like Evolving-Hockey. This places him among the elite players in the league, rivaling contracts signed by stars like Alex Vlasik and Lane Hutson.
Bedard’s performance trajectory implies he is likely to demand a long-term deal reflective of his value on the ice. His growing reputation could lead to annual average values (AAV) ranging from $10 million to as much as $13.6 million on shorter deals.
Comparative Contracts and Expectations
Contracts for similar players have become vital points of reference. Luke Hughes’ eight-year deal at an AAV of $9 million and Cooley’s $10 million agreement provide a basis for negotiations. Bedard’s potential earnings will influence not just his future but the Blackhawks’ ability to retain other promising talents.
Moreover, as the Blackhawks continue to prioritize youth development, balancing Bedard’s aspirations with the team’s long-term strategy will be crucial. Players like Frank Nazar and Spencer Knight have also extended their contracts, which further complicates the landscape.
Conclusion
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Connor Bedard and how he navigates his impending contract situation with the Chicago Blackhawks. His rising performance and market value make him a key asset. Although Bedard claims he is not concerned with negotiations, the outcome will significantly impact both his career and the future direction of the Blackhawks. The challenge for Davidson will be to construct a deal that satisfies Bedard while allowing flexibility for the team’s evolving roster.
