NHL Rumors: Blackhawks delay contract extension talks with Connor Bedard despite rising value and strong commitment

The Chicago Blackhawks appear to be playing a strategic waiting game with their franchise centerpiece, Connor Bedard. As the young phenom approaches the final year of his entry-level contract, the NHL world expected the Blackhawks to move quickly to lock him down with a long-term extension.

Yet, according to multiple reports, the team is opting to delay negotiations, signaling a potentially risky decision amid Bedard’s skyrocketing value.

Connor Bedard set for contract year as Chicago eyes other priorities

Entering the 2025–26 season, Bedard will play the final year of his rookie deal before becoming a restricted free agent. While fans can rest easy knowing Bedard has expressed his loyalty—“he’s committed to the Hawks for the long term,” per Chicago Sun-Times reporter Ben Pope—putting off an extension could prove costly.

With each passing month, the 19-year-old’s stock continues to soar, both on the ice and in market value.

Chicago's front office may be avoiding the pressure of major negotiations this offseason, choosing instead to focus on team-wide priorities. But with the NHL's new calendar year beginning July 1, and Bedard officially eligible for an extension, many see this as a missed opportunity to secure their future at today’s price tag.

Team may prioritize other deals first, including goalie Spencer Knight

Interestingly, while Bedard and teammate Frank Nazar are expected to have quiet summers regarding their contracts—both projected to sign extensions in 2026—the team may already be leaning toward locking up newly acquired goaltender Spencer Knight sooner.

Knight arrived in Chicago via a blockbuster trade that sent veteran defenseman Seth Jones to Florida, a move that helped the Panthers capture their second Stanley Cup.

Though Knight’s immediate impact in Chicago remains to be seen, Pope reports that, “Knight... also will become extension-eligible. That might have higher odds of happening this summer.”Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Hurricanes linked to blockbuster deal for Jason Robertson to fix playoff strugglesIf the Blackhawks hope to build around Bedard for the next decade, this delay may come at a steep price. With NHL stars commanding upwards of $10–12 million annually, waiting could cost the team both flexibility and leverage. The commitment is mutual—but timing, as always, is everything.