Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard agrees to a five-year contract extension worth $75 million, according to multiple reports. The deal sets his average annual value at about $15 million per season and comes as the 21-year-old remains tied to the team as a restricted free agent. Sources also note the agreement follows a period of discussion dating back to Bedard being selected first overall by the Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft. Several outlets describe the contract as the team’s key offseason move, with the rebuilding Blackhawks locking in their leading scorer.
One report states the extension is finalized shortly after Bedard’s left shoulder surgery, while another says he is rehabbing from shoulder surgery at the time the agreement is reached. Coverage also points out Bedard has led Chicago in scoring in each of his first three NHL seasons, and that the contract places him among the league’s higher-paid players by average annual salary. Multiple outlets characterize the agreement as ending any possibility of an offer sheet from another team this offseason.
