The Chicago Blackhawks have signed their No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Connor Bedard, to a three-year entry-level contract. Bedard agreed to the terms of the contract on his 18th birthday. The contract has a $950,000 annual cap hit and will be in effect until the 2025-26 season.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson expressed excitement about Bedard joining the team, stating that his signing is a significant step in building a new foundation for the organization. Davidson also expects Bedard to play a major role in the team’s future.
In the 2022-23 season, Bedard had an impressive performance for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League, recording 143 points in 57 regular-season games. He led the WHL in points, goals, and assists. Additionally, Bedard ranked seventh in goals and eighth in points during the WHL playoffs.
Commenting on being drafted by the Blackhawks, Bedard expressed his excitement and honor to be part of the team’s future. He mentioned the rich sports history of the Blackhawks organization and the city of Chicago.
This is the second time the Blackhawks have held the top pick in the NHL Draft. In 2007, they selected superstar forward Patrick Kane, who was traded by the franchise in the 2022-23 season after 15 years in Chicago.
Bedard has had an impressive career so far, tallying 271 points in 134 regular-season games with the Regina Pats over the past three seasons. He was also chosen as the team captain during the 2022-23 campaign.
Bedard is expected to be part of the Chicago Blackhawks’ Opening Night roster and will likely be the center of the team’s top line.
