All eyes will be on Chicago Blackhawks young star Connor Bedard next season. The 20-year-old forward is entering the final season of his entry-level contract, and he certainly is due for a significant raise from his current $950,000 average annual value (AAV) on his next deal. Thus, this upcoming season is undoubtedly a significant one for Bedard. If he waits to sign his next contract and puts together a big season for the Blackhawks, it would only raise his value even further. 

Bedard just completed his second year with the Blackhawks, and it was a solid year for the 2023 first-overall pick. In 82 games, he set new career highs with 23 goals, 44 assists, and 67 points in 82 games. This was after he recorded 22 goals, 39 assists, and 61 points in 68 contests for Chicago during the 2023-24 season. Overall, the young forward has certainly demonstrated that he can be a real offensive threat at the NHL level early in his career.

Yet, now that Bedard is entering his third NHL season, which is a contract year, many are naturally expecting him to hit a new level with his play in 2025-26. The youngster has the skill to be a superstar in this league for several years to come, and it would not be surprising if he makes a bigger impact in 2025-26 because of it. 

If Bedard hits a new level offensively next season, it would be massive for a Blackhawks club that is looking to become more competitive. It is going to be very fascinating to see what kind of year he can put together in 2025-26 from here, but the possibility of him hitting the 90-point mark should not be ruled out. 

Blackhawks Surging Forward Is Prime Breakout Candidate The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks">Chicago Blackhawks</a> have several exciting young players in their system. One of them is undoubtedly Frank Nazar, as the 2022 first-round pick has the tools to emerge as a legitimate top-six forward as he continues to gain more experience at the NHL level.

Photo Credit: © Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images