Connor Bedard Receives Qualifying Offer from Blackhawks

Connor Bedard, the Canadian NHL hockey athlete, received a qualifying offer from the Chicago Blackhawks on June 29, 2026. This move allows the Blackhawks to retain his rights past the expiration of his entry-level contract.

What happened?

The Blackhawks made the expected decision to give qualifying offers to four of their restricted free agents, including Connor Bedard, before the deadline on June 29, 2026.

The other players who received qualifying offers were defensemen Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro, and goalie Drew Commesso.

Why it matters for Connor Bedard

Contract negotiations between the Blackhawks and Bedard's agents have recently picked up, with the two sides exchanging their desired numbers and working toward an agreement.

The potential salary-cap hit for Bedard is likely in the $13-16 million range.

What comes next?

Fans need not worry about the possibility of Bedard signing an offer sheet with another team, as the qualifying offer ensures the Blackhawks retain his rights.

Korchinski, Del Mastro, and Commesso are likely to receive one- or two-year contracts with low salary-cap hits, extending their windows to establish themselves as NHL players.

Ben Pope, the Chicago Sun-Times Chicago Blackhawks reporter, noted that Commesso has arbitration rights.

The two defensemen, Korchinski and Del Mastro, are no longer exempt from waivers next season, making training camp crucial for them.

Korchinski hopes his summer of training in Chicago will prepare him for a potentially make-or-break season.