Connor Bedard’s strong start to the 2025-26 season has boosted talks about his next contract. NHL insider Frank Seravalli discussed the situation during a CHSN stream. Bedard can sign an extension now and is in the final year of his rookie deal. Seravalli said Bedard’s early play makes negotiations easier for everyone."Because with him not just being a top five scorer in the league but unquestionably one of the top five best players in the league," Seravalli said. "he's put himself into a category that really kind of makes this relatively simple,"Seravalli said an eight-year deal is the most likely outcome. He expects Bedard to earn between $12.5 million and $15 million per year. That would put the total value between $100 million and $120 million. The rising salary cap and available cap space support that view."Connor Bedard is likely to land somewhere between 12 and a half million dollars a year and $15 million a year," Seravalli said. "And so, yes, a relatively big spread at this point in time, but it helps us set the goalpost somewhere between 100 million and 120 million bucks over the term of the deal."And in the end, because Connor Bedard has put himself in that category, I think the Chicago Blackhawks are going to be relatively comfortable ... that's also in the best interest of Connor Bedard, to help surround him with the best talent possible moving forward."In early October, Connor McDavid signed a two-year, $25 million contract. His deal carries a $12.5 million annual value, so Bedard can surpass him in earning if the projection holds.A long-term deal would give the Blackhawks a clear number to build around. It also helps them in adding more talent in future seasons. Seravalli said this approach benefits both sides, and the Blackhawks will not resist Bedard’s contract demands.Some have suggested Bedard may choose a shorter deal. Seravalli does not think this will happen. He explained that most young stars sign eight-year contracts. They want to secure their first major payday. He noted that this pattern fits Bedard’s situation as well."If you look at all of Connor Bedard's comparables," Seravalli said, "guys coming out of entry-level guys in that breath of conversation, well, they're all signing eight-year contracts. They're all getting that first major payday. And then, if you want to get creative after the fact, then make that so."...And so yes, the Hawks would be buying all of Connor Bedard's prime."Connor Bedard is driving the Blackhawks' offenseConnor Bedard has helped the Chicago Blackhawks improve in many areas this season. He has 13 goals and 18 assists so far, and his two hat tricks show his strong scoring ability. He creates offense on most shifts and helps control the pace. His reliable play makes him the team’s most reliable forward.Bedard also improves the team’s overall scoring. The Blackhawks now average 3.14 goals per game with him and Tyler Bertuzzi leading the offense. His impact shows in the team’s 10-8-4 record.In his young career, Bedard has 159 points in 172 games, and his growth continues to guide the Blackhawks forward.