NHL Hockey Summary

Connor Bedard has signed a five-year, $75 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, making him the third-highest-paid player in the NHL at an average annual value of $15 million, behind Leo Carlsson and Kirill Kaprizov.

Despite leading the Blackhawks in points last season with 30 goals and 75 points in 69 games, Bedard will miss the start of the season due to shoulder surgery, marking the third time he has been sidelined in his four-year career.

The Blackhawks are also looking to enhance their competitiveness, recently acquiring Bowen Byram from the Buffalo Sabres. In other league news, the NHL announced an expansion of the regular season to 84 games starting in the 2026-27 season, aiming to create a more balanced schedule and intensify team rivalries.

This will be the first expansion since the league had an 84-game season from 1992 to 1994. The New Jersey Devils are exploring goaltending options as they seek to enhance their playoff aspirations, possibly targeting Connor Hellebuyck or Jordan Binnington to solidify their netminding situation.

Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues are positioning themselves as potential sleeper contenders in the Western Conference after making several roster changes, including trading Jordan Kyrou for Connor McMichael and signing Mason McTavish.

Finally, the Winnipeg Jets have agreed to a five-year, $30 million contract with center Cole Perfetti, ensuring they keep a key player in their lineup as they look to rebound after missing the playoffs last season.