The better Connor Bedard gets, the pricier he’ll likely become.
Bedard becoming one of the NHL’s best players at age 20 has presumably increased his asking price during contract negotiations next summer from a lot to a ton of money. Given the skyrocketing salary cap, he might have a valid argument for $15 million per year on a maximum eight-year deal.
But having one of the league’s best players on the cusp of his prime is a fantastic position for the Hawks to be in. No matter the price tag, it’s worth it. Many other franchises would switch places with them in a heartbeat.
In fact, he’s proving to be so good that the negotiations might not end up centered on his performance and upside at all. Instead, his and the Hawks’ camps might find themselves determining what cap hit both sides agree would give the team enough remaining space and flexibility to assemble a contending roster around him.
Because there’s no doubt anymore that’s what Bedard is: a championship-caliber centerpiece.
It’s just crazy how many people doubted him. He is simply unreal
Get those black and centennial jerseys back in stock and I’ll donate to the cause
He still doesnt even have great players on his wings yet. Once that comes watch out. This is just the tip of the iceberg
Bedard has added speed and some Kaner to his game. Man does he love the moment and his cellys are starting to go towards insulting the other team for not being on his level. I love it.
Uhh yeah no shit
If he wants to maximize value, Bedard has probably made himself at least $40M with his improvements over the offseason.
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From reporter [Ben Pope](https://chicago.suntimes.com/authors/ben-pope):
The better Connor Bedard gets, the pricier he’ll likely become.
Bedard becoming one of the NHL’s best players at age 20 has presumably increased his asking price during contract negotiations next summer from a lot to a ton of money. Given the skyrocketing salary cap, he might have a valid argument for $15 million per year on a maximum eight-year deal.
But having one of the league’s best players on the cusp of his prime is a fantastic position for the Hawks to be in. No matter the price tag, it’s worth it. Many other franchises would switch places with them in a heartbeat.
In fact, he’s proving to be so good that the negotiations might not end up centered on his performance and upside at all. Instead, his and the Hawks’ camps might find themselves determining what cap hit both sides agree would give the team enough remaining space and flexibility to assemble a contending roster around him.
Because there’s no doubt anymore that’s what Bedard is: a championship-caliber centerpiece.
[Read Ben’s full story here.](https://chicago.suntimes.com/blackhawks/2025/12/03/connor-bedard-blackhawks-contract-negotiations-championship-centerpiece)
Now?
It’s just crazy how many people doubted him. He is simply unreal
Get those black and centennial jerseys back in stock and I’ll donate to the cause
He still doesnt even have great players on his wings yet. Once that comes watch out. This is just the tip of the iceberg
Bedard has added speed and some Kaner to his game. Man does he love the moment and his cellys are starting to go towards insulting the other team for not being on his level. I love it.
Uhh yeah no shit
If he wants to maximize value, Bedard has probably made himself at least $40M with his improvements over the offseason.