Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard amongst top 2026 NHL restricted free agents

Last season, at only 19 years old, he managed to tally 67 points in 82 games. Many NHLers struggle in their second season in the League, and Bedard was widely criticized for small mistakes despite an overall good production.

When you expect a 19-year-old player to lead and lift a rebuilding team to success, you can't complain if results don't come immediately.

But after encouraging signs at the end of the last season, and reports confirming Bedard has been back at work for a while now, all points toward a great season for the 2023 first overall pick.

That's why it isn't surprising to see him included among the best players set to become restricted free agents next season.

While there are a few interesting players who will become RFAs next summer, Bedard is surely among those to watch closely.

Although nothing indicated a deal won't be reached between him and the Chicago Blackhawks organization before then, his contract will surely be a distraction if it doesn't get done before the start of the next season.

Now 20 years old, Bedard will be in a position to ask for a big contract. He holds the bigger end of the stick, as he knows he's a central element of the Hawks' rebuild.

It wouldn't be surprising that even though he made public his wishes to remain in Chicago, he'll be able to ask for a salary around $10M AAV.

On the same list feature Dallas Stars' Jason Robertson and Thomas Harley, Montreal Canadiens' Lane Hutson, Utah Mammoth's Logan Cooley, Columbus Blue Jackets' Adam Fantilli, Calgary Flames' Dustin Wolf, and more.

Stay tuned for further updates on Bedard's contract.