The next contract for Connor Bedard may not only reshape the future of the Chicago Blackhawks, but also reset the NHL salary market for superstar talent.
Speaking on the Daily Faceoff podcast, insider David Pagnotta said negotiations between Chicago and Bedard’s camp are ongoing, with discussions already reaching massive numbers.
“You’re hearing $14 million AAV, you’re hearing $15 million, $16 million, depends on what the term is,” Pagnotta said. “With the cap going up, we’re at $104 million for next season. I think a lot of people are going to have to come to the realization that the salaries in the NHL across the board are going to get higher.”
That reality is quickly approaching.
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Bedard completed his entry-level contract after producing 75 points in 69 games during his third NHL season. More importantly, his overall game improved significantly. He scored 23 even-strength goals, became stronger defensively, and showed major growth in faceoffs and puck battles.
For Chicago, this is no longer about projecting potential. Bedard already drives the franchise offensively.
Chicago balancing term versus control
Pagnotta explained the negotiation centers around two different contract paths.
“The negotiations are ongoing,” Pagnotta said. “They’re going back and forth. Nothing is negative, really. It’s just, as you said, this is a negotiation. Different variations and different options are being discussed back and forth. Going full term, going to take him to the end of his RFA status, right before that final year before he can get to UFA, so he’s still controllable.”
Chicago would clearly prefer the maximum eight-year deal for long-term cost certainty. A shorter bridge contract would likely lower the cap hit temporarily, but it could create an even larger financial problem later if Bedard continues ascending into MVP territory.
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The Blackhawks also know timing matters. The NHL salary cap is rising sharply, and contracts signed now could look manageable in three years.
That is why league executives are watching these negotiations closely.
Connor Bedard deal could impact entire NHL market
Pagnotta believes Bedard’s extension will influence multiple young stars across the league.
“Bedard’s contract is going to affect others as well,” he said. “It’s going to affect Macklin Celebrini at some point. It’s going to affect Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier.”
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That ripple effect already exists internally for Chicago.
The Blackhawks finally showed signs of progress this season despite missing the playoffs again. Young players like Frank Nazar, Wyatt Kaiser, and Artyom Levshunov became regular contributors, giving the organization a clearer foundation around Bedard.
But elite talent always changes salary structures.
If Bedard lands above $15 million annually, he could become the new benchmark for franchise-level forwards entering their prime years. Given his age, production curve, and the NHL’s rising revenues, many around the league believe that number is no longer unrealistic.
