The Chicago Blackhawks are set to prioritize securing a long-term deal for their star player, Connor Bedard, following the extension of GM Kyle Davidson. Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz expressed strong confidence in Bedard’s performance and leadership, stating their clear intention to make him a long-term fixture with the team. Wirtz emphasized the organization’s philosophy of developing talent from within, but also acknowledged GM Davidson’s authority to pursue external improvements when opportune.
Contract negotiations between Bedard’s agent, Don Meehan, and GM Kyle Davidson are anticipated to commence in May. Bedard is scheduled to become a restricted free agent on July 1st, and a contract extension is considered a certainty. While a deal finalized before September 15th can be for a maximum of eight years, any agreement after that date will be limited to seven years. Given Bedard’s impressive play, talent, and the anticipated rise in the salary cap, his next contract is expected to be substantial. The Blackhawks will likely aim for the full eight-year term, whereas Bedard’s camp might consider a shorter deal to maximize his earnings in his subsequent contract, potentially reaching unrestricted free agency at age 26 after a five-year agreement.
Initial projections for Bedard’s next contract, made before the current season, ranged from $12.5 million to $13.5 million annually. However, his exceptional performance this season could push this figure into the $13.5 million to $15 million range. While such figures are manageable in the short term, they may present more challenges later as other entry-level contracts expire and the team needs to re-sign additional players.
