Connor Bedard’s new contract with the Chicago Blackhawks has made him the third-highest-paid player in the NHL by average annual value, but his agent says the young superstar was not focused on pushing the deal to its absolute limit.
Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million contract extension with Chicago. The deal carries a $15 million AAV and runs through the 2030-31 season. That number immediately puts Bedard ahead of Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl, whose $14 million AAV had previously been one of the highest in the league.
Connor Bedard’s Agent Addresses His Intentions After New Blackhawks Contract
The biggest question surrounding Bedard’s extension is whether the Blackhawks star could have demanded even more money.
After Leo Carlsson signed an $18 million AAV deal with the Anaheim Ducks, many wondered whether Bedard would use his status as the No. 1 overall pick and Chicago’s franchise player to push for a similar contract.
However, Bedard’s agent, Don Meehan, said the final decision was entirely up to his client.
“It’s certainly reflective of the changing economic climate in our game today. But as far as Connor was concerned, he was happy with the original position that we had submitted to Chicago and negotiated,” Meehan said. “He wanted the team to have as much leeway to make the team as effective and competitive as it could be.
“He became aware of the changing economic landscape, but that was his decision, entirely his decision,” the agent told The Athletic.
That decision could benefit Bedard in the long run.
When his contract expires in 2031, Bedard will still be in the prime years of his career. With the salary cap expected to soar, he could be in an excellent position to sign a massive long-term contract that could break league records.
Blackhawks Believe Bedard Is Worth the Investment
Chicago general manager Kyle Davidson had no hesitation about committing $75 million to the young star.
Bedard has led the Blackhawks in scoring in each of his first three NHL seasons and recently passed the 200-point mark in his career.
“Connor has continuously defied our expectations since being drafted, and has quickly established himself as an elite player in the NHL,” Davidson said. “He sets an extraordinary standard for our young core.”
The contract is a major investment, but the Blackhawks believe Bedard is the type of player who can transform the franchise.
However, Chicago will have to wait a little longer to see its star back on the ice.
Bedard underwent left shoulder surgery after suffering an offseason training injury. He is expected to miss the start of the regular season, with a recovery timeline of around four months.
When he does return, Bedard will be expected to lead a young Chicago team that is trying to finally move beyond the bottom of the NHL standings.
