Long-Term Connor Bedard Extension in Chicago 'Not a Foregone Conclusion' Per Chris Johnston
Connor Bedard's future appears to be in Chicago, but as of right now, it doesn't appear as though the full eight-year extension is guaranteed.
Connor Bedard was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, and despite a relatively slow star given the sky high expectations, he's starting to look like the franchise star that the Chicago Blackhawks drafted.
In 2025/26, Bedard's third season, the 20-year old has 6 goals and 15 points through 12 games played, and with Frank Nazar as the team's 2C, it appears as though they've found a star duo of the future.
Long-Term Extension Not Guaranteed For Bedard
Considering his hot start this year after two very solid campaigns to begin his career, Bedard has become the face of the franchise and will be for a long time to come, with many expecting a long-term extension to come soon.
Now, that has been addressed by NHL Insider Chris Johnston, who has revealed that it's not a foregone conclusion that Bedard's next deal will carry the max term of eight years under the current NHL CBA.
It's not a foregone conclusion he'll sign 8 years, I'm sure the Blackhawks will want that, but his side might want a 5 year deal.
At 20-years of age, Bedard has already solidified himself as a star in the NHL, and with the Blackhawks slowly building their franchise back up, they can't afford to lose Bedard.
At this point in time, Bedard may push for a five-year deal with the salary cap continuing to rise year after year, but given how much he means to the franchise, they'll do anything to keep him in Chicago as long as possible.
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