Chicago Blackhawks Prioritize Spencer Knight’s Extension, Eye Bright Future with Connor Bedard

The Chicago Blackhawks are working to secure their roster for the future. They plan to extend goaltender Spencer Knight’s contract before focusing on a long-term agreement with star forward Connor Bedard.NHL insiders report this change in strategy, which has surprised fans who thought Bedard’s contract would be the priority. The team understands Knight’s role in providing stability in goal as they rebuild. They are moving quickly to keep him as expectations rise for the 2025-26 season. With the NHL salary cap expected to increase to $95 million or more by 2026-27, Chicago sees this as a good opportunity to secure Knight at a reasonable price and avoid potential bidding competition later.

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Spencer Knight, who came over from the Florida Panthers last offseason, is in the last year of his three-year, $13.5 million contract. This means he’ll be a restricted free agent after the 2025-26 season. At 24, Knight already has a Stanley Cup win with Florida back in 2024. Chicago is counting on him to be their main goalie for a long time.

Last season, Knight played in 15 games and had a 3.18 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage. These numbers weren’t great, but the team’s weak defense didn’t exactly help. Jeff Blashill, the team’s new head coach since the summer of 2025, is focusing on making the defense stronger to support Knight. Early signs from training camp are that things are getting better. Knight has said he feels that better puck possession by his teammates will help him play his best.

On the 32 Thoughts podcast, NHL expert Elliotte Friedman mentioned that after Chicago takes care of some other things, Spencer Knight will be an important consideration, especially since his contract is up after this season. Friedman’s statement shows the Blackhawks’ careful plan led by general manager Kyle Davidson. He’s balancing different priorities to make the team stronger around Bedard. Trading for Knight fixed a clear problem they’ve had for years with unreliable goaltending. Giving him an extension now stops problems during an important year of rebuilding. Fans are happy with this smart move because it lets the team focus on improving their offense without worrying about who’s in goal.

Connor Bedard, the 19-year-old star picked first in the 2023 draft, is heading into his third NHL season and is in no hurry to sign a contract extension. While his numbers dipped a little in his second year—54 points in 68 games—Bedard has looked impressive in preseason workouts, showing off his great shot and vision. He and the team both think it’s best to wait until the salary cap increases. He might get an eight-year contract worth over $100 million when talks start in 2026. For now, Bedard is focused on leading on the ice, guiding his younger teammates, and helping the Blackhawks do well in the Central Division. This calm approach makes fans feel good, as they see the wait as part of smart negotiating, not a worry.

General Manager Davidson plans to add talented players around Bedard, and goalie Knight’s extension fits perfectly. By addressing the goalie situation first, Chicago can focus on Bedard’s big contract, while also demonstrating that they value both their own players and those they bring in. Knight’s athleticism and mental strength, which he developed during tense playoff games in Florida, will work well with Chicago’s tough style. The team is investing in his growth with special training and video analysis, aiming for him to allow fewer than 2.80 goals per game this season. Some predict that Knight could be a top goalie candidate by 2027 if the defense improves under Coach Blashill’s system.

This series of moves reflects what’s happening across the league, where both contenders and rebuilding teams are signing solid players early to support their stars. The Blackhawks are learning from past seasons that were hurt by inconsistent goalies, and Knight seems like a long-term answer. He stays calm in high-pressure situations, even when the defense makes mistakes, and Chicago is committed to improving the players around him. There’s a lot of excitement as training camp approaches on September 15, 2025, and there are reports that Knight’s deal will be done before the first game. Insider Friedman’s podcast echoes what agents are saying, confirming the team’s careful approach.

Bedard is doing well in this environment, not distracted by contract talks, and is hoping for a 70-point season to prove his doubters wrong. The Blackhawks are surrounding him with promising talents like Oliver Moore and Sam Rinzel, creating a strong core. Knight’s expected extension strengthens that base, guaranteeing stability in goal. Fans are filling the United Center with renewed hope, imagining playoff runs sooner than expected. Davidson is handling things well, balancing the urgency to sign Knight with the timing for Bedard’s contract.

As negotiations continue, the Blackhawks are positioning themselves as an up-and-coming team by blending young talent with seasoned veterans. Knight is gearing up for a crucial season, applying his experiences from Florida to assist Chicago’s rebuild. The team is refining its defensive strategies, aiming to offer him enhanced support and capitalize on his assets. This comprehensive approach is exciting the fans, who see every move as a step toward becoming a contender. With Knight’s contract on the way, the focus will then shift to Bedard’s future, setting the stage for Chicago’s next successful chapter.