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Connor Bedard receives major advisory from NHL analyst before re-signing with the Chicago Blackhawks

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Jack Sutherland
October 20, 2025 (5:48 PM)

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NHL analyst Mark Lazerus is advising Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard to take a bridge contract in his next deal, as his current contract expires in 2026.

Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard's contract expires in 2026, and he'll be up for a new deal that Blackhawks fans will hope keeps him in the Windy City for a long time.

The start the Blackhawks have gotten off to this year under Jeff Blashill, who was hired as the new head coach, is encouraging in large part thanks to the goaltending of Spencer Knight.

NHL analyst Mark Lazerus recently advised Bedard that it would be better for him to accept a bridge-style contract rather than a 6-7 year extension for his next contract.

"If I'm Connor Bedard, I'm not saying he's going to do this, (but) I want to take, like, a bridge (deal)," Lazerus said, via "The Sheet with Jeff Marek." "I want to go old-school bridge deal and take, like, a three-year deal. Really get that 10."

Lazerus also referenced San Jose Sharks young star Macklin Celebrini, who like Bedard, was also taken with the 1st overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft just a year after Bedard.

"There's a rejection of him (Bedard). People want to elevate Celebrini. They're both great. Both going to be superstars. They will pay him (Bedard) whatever he wants. He is the franchise."

Connor Bedard says he's comfortable with the state of negotiations

In September, Bedard sounded like he wasn't in a rush to get a new contract done and also said that he was comfortable with the state of negotiations.

"It's nothing crazy. We're both comfortable with where we're at. They know I want to be there; I know they want me. So, it's really not on my mind that much, and I just think when it happens, it'll happen."

So far this year, Bedard has 7 points (2G, 5A).

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Former Blackhawks star's time in the Big Apple reportedly coming to an end

Statement issued: 3 key members of the Blackhawks suddenly absent from team practice

Positive news shines on the Blackhawks as a longtime NHL veteran re-joins the team after his absence

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OCTOBRE 20 \| 109 ANSWERS Connor Bedard receives major advisory from NHL analyst before re-signing with the Chicago Blackhawks Should Connor Bedard accept a bridge-style contract?
Yes	62	56.9 %
No	47	43.1 %
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Connor Bedard receives major advisory from NHL analyst before re-signing with the Chicago Blackhawks

NHL analyst Mark Lazerus is advising Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard to take a bridge contract in his next deal, as his current contract expires in 2026.

Connor Bedard says he's comfortable with the state of negotiations

Should Connor Bedard accept a bridge-style contract?