Bedard, who was a restricted free agent this summer, took huge strides offensively in his third NHL season. The 21-year-old set new career highs with 30 goals and 75 points, despite being limited to only 69 games due to a shoulder injury around Christmas.
“Connor has continuously defied our expectations since being drafted, and has quickly established himself as an elite player in the NHL,” said Blackhawks general Manager Kyle Davidson in the team’s news release.
“He utilizes all aspects of his game to not only be a constant threat, but to make the players around him better every time he steps on the ice. Connor’s strong work ethic and determination to always improve his game has set an extraordinary standard for our young core, and we’re excited for the incredible impact he’ll have in this next chapter of Blackhawks hockey.”
The Blackhawks took Bedard with the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Now that he’s locked in, the team can focus on returning to the playoffs for the first time in a non-pandemic season since 2016-17.
However, Bedard is set to miss the start of the season after he had surgery on his left shoulder on July 8. The North Vancouver, B.C., native hurt the shoulder during an off-season skate a week prior and has a recovery timeline of approximately four months.
