Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks aren’t rushing to get a new contract done, and that might be the smartest play for both sides.
The 20-year-old star center, who was the No. 1 overall pick in 2021, became eligible for an extension on July 1. But according to Frank Seravalli of Bleacher Report, neither side feels any pressure to make a deal right now.
It’s easy to see why they’re taking their time.
Bedard came into the NHL with massive expectations after absolutely dominating junior hockey. He put up mind-boggling numbers in the WHL – 134 goals and 137 assists in just 134 games with the Regina Pats.
But his NHL journey hasn’t quite reached superstar status yet.
He led the Blackhawks in scoring both years, but his production actually dipped slightly last season. After posting 61 points (22 goals, 39 assists) in 67 games as a rookie, he managed 67 points (23 goals, 44 assists) in a full 82-game campaign last year.
Those are solid numbers, but they’re not the eye-popping stats many expected from a player dubbed the next NHL superstar.
Based on recent contracts for young centers, Bedard might be looking at around $8.5 million per year on a long-term deal. But that number could be too low for Bedard’s camp and too rich for the Blackhawks right now.
Waiting makes sense for everyone. Even if Bedard has another so-so season, he’s still central to Chicago’s future plans. And if things don’t click right away, they could always work out a shorter bridge deal to buy more time.
Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson has shown he’s willing to commit long-term to young talent. He recently signed defenseman Alex Vlasic to a six-year contract and forward Frank Nazar to a seven-year deal.
Bedard will probably get his big contract too – it just might have to wait until next summer.
