How much money does Connor Bedard make

Connor Bedard, the first overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, plays for the Chicago Blackhawks as one of hockey's most exciting young talents. Yet many fans wonder: how much money does Connor Bedard make? The answer surprises most people. Despite being arguably the league's best young player, Bedard earns under $1 million annually on his current contract. This rookie deal limits his pay regardless of his exceptional talent a common NHL practice that catches many fans off guard.

What Connor Bedard earns right now

Bedard signed a three-year entry-level contract worth $13.35 million total. That breaks down to $950,000 per year on average. For the 2025-26 season specifically, his earnings include an $855,000 base salary plus a $95,000 signing bonus. These numbers seem pretty modest for a player who scored 61 points as a rookie and 67 points in his second season. But entry-level contracts follow strict NHL rules that affect all young players, regardless of their draft position (even if they're superstars).

Why rookies earn less than you'd think

The NHL enforces a standardized contract structure for players in their first three years. Top draft picks like Bedard cannot negotiate around these limits. Every first overall selection since 2005 has started with similar salary caps. The league created these rules to maintain financial balance between teams. Players demonstrate their value during these early years, then earn significantly more on their next deals. It's not about undervaluing talent it's simply how the league operates.

His contract is about to change

Bedard becomes eligible to negotiate a new contract starting in 2025-26. The Blackhawks and his management team have already begun those discussions. However, complications exist. New salary cap rules and recent collective bargaining agreement changes have made negotiations trickier. Teams and players must navigate shifting financial landscapes. These talks may take months or longer to finalize a new deal.

What to expect from his next deal

Bedard's next contract will look dramatically different. His scoring prowess 23 goals and 44 assists in 82 games during 2024-25 justifies major salary growth. Elite young players in the NHL now earn $8-12 million annually. Bedard has the talent and stats to command similar numbers, potentially making him one of hockey's highest-paid young stars. Contract negotiations between the Blackhawks and his representatives will dominate ice hockey news in coming months. Fans should expect a significant raise that reflects his impact on the ice and the league's rising salary cap.