The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Connor Bedard to a five-year contract extension, a move that will keep the young star with the team through the 2029-2030 season. The deal carries an average annual value of $15 million.
Bedard, a restricted free agent after completing his rookie contract, was eligible to receive an offer sheet from another NHL team. The possibility of such a scenario had loomed, especially following a significant offer sheet extended to Leo Carlsson by the Philadelphia Flyers earlier in the offseason. However, the Blackhawks' extension with Bedard preempts any potential offer sheet complications.
The contract reportedly includes a full no-move clause that becomes active in the fifth and final year of the deal. This structure provides the Blackhawks with flexibility while securing their franchise cornerstone.
Despite facing some injuries early in his NHL career, Bedard has demonstrated flashes of the high-level play expected from him since being selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. The $15 million AAV is seen as a favorable figure for Chicago, particularly in comparison to other recent high-value contracts signed by young stars in the league.