However, the good news may not stop there, as the Maple Leafs could also explore a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks to come away with another top-five pick. Obviously, though, such a move would come at a price. And it’s one the recently formed front office led by John Chayka and Mats Sundin may never be able to live down.

“[The Blackhawks] have had interest in Matthew Knies. I wouldn’t be shocked if they call up John Chayka and say, we want to give you the 4th overall pick and this and this for Knies,” David Pagnotta said during an appearance on Leafs Morning Take.

As it stands, the Maple Leafs own seven picks in the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft. By making such a deal with the Blackhawks, they could bolster their draft capital without missing out on McKenna, whose name is already plastered across jerseys throughout the city.

‘Knies’ things aren’t cheap

On paper, a trade could make a lot of sense. The Chicago Blackhawks urgently need someone who can play alongside Connor Bedard on the top line and not look completely out of place. The Hawks have forced square pegs into round holes for far too long. They owe it to their future captain to finally surround him with top, proven weapons. Considering this year’s free-agent class is expected to be historically weak, the trade route appears to be the best option.

On top of that, Bedard has yet to sign an extension. There is little to no concern about losing him to restricted free agency, but a move like this ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft could encourage the 20-year-old to put pen to paper even sooner. Obviously, such a move would also come at a price for Chicago.

Blackhawks have troubled history with Draft

The Blackhawks dropped two spots after the Draft Lottery and reportedly have no clear preference regarding whom to select with the fourth overall pick. There are also growing concerns about some of the organization’s recent top draft selections.

Look no further than the selection of Artyom Levshunov in 2024, when Chicago passed on Beckett Sennecke and Ivan Demidov. The blueliner may still pan out in the Windy City, but his minus-41 rating last season can hardly be deemed a good omen.

Thus, even if it stings, trading the fourth overall pick and additional assets for a proven top-six winger like Knies may not be bad business on Kyle Davidson’s part. Davidson did say, “We’re going to get a really good player,” following the Draft Lottery. If he trades the pick for Knies, he may very well stay true to his word.

Maple Leafs’ perspective

As for the Maple Leafs’ say in the matter, that is where the trouble begins. Toronto may want nothing to do with losing Knies, its second-round pick from 2021. The Arizona native finished third in scoring for the Buds during the 2025-26 season with 23 goals and 43 assists for 66 points in 79 games.

What is more, he has become a fan favorite, and trading him could make Chayka and Sundin no friends in a market that embraces you quickly, but is even quicker to cast you aside.

Why trading Knies could work out for Toronto

From a contract and business standpoint, though, the move could make sense. Knies is the main trade chip the Leafs possess. As Chris Johnston reported, teams may be even more willing to break the piggy bank for Knies than they would for Auston Matthews.

More importantly, Knies is signed through 2031 under a contract that doesn’t include any form of protection. No other star in The Six is signed to a deal like that. It makes things easier both for Toronto to explore the market and for potential suitors to go out of their way to make a trade happen. Beginning next season, Knies will have five years remaining on his $46.5 million contract ($7.75 million AAV).

Potential win-win scenario for Chicago, Toronto

If the Hawks can put together the right offer, who is to say the Leafs will be able to resist? Chicago loses nothing by knocking on Toronto’s door. As for the Buds, they may have more on the line, but they also face the possibility of coming away with Gavin McKenna and one of Ivar Stenberg, Caleb Malhotra, Chase Reid, or Carson Carels, so that is not too shabby either.

There are far worse situations to be in around the NHL. The Draft Lottery has already set the Maple Leafs up for success, and the Blackhawks may toss them yet another lifeline—for a considerable asset in return, of course.

Talks between Bedard and Chicago have been slow, with few updates as of late. However, things may be quietly simmering. With the NHL’s confirmation of the salary cap spike—which had already been reported and expected league-wide—it’s safe to assume extension negotiations are set to pick up pace.

“This is big for extension negotiations,” as stated by @NHLRumourReport on X. “Would not be surprised if we see some in the coming weeks now that the numbers are solidified.”

New salary cap details

As reported by Elliotte Friedman, the NHL has announced that the salary cap floor has been set at $76.9 million. The midpoint has been adjusted to $90.4 million, with the salary cap ceiling spiking to $104 million. In the 2025–26 NHL season, the floor was $70.9 million, with a $95.5 million ceiling. Moreover, the league has announced that the maximum salary will now be $20.8 million.

Kirill Kaprizov signed the biggest contract in league history ($17 million average annual value) in his eight-year, $136 million deal, which will begin next season. Under his current contract, he is set to earn an annual salary of $19.1 million in 2026–27, per PuckPedia.

Bedard’s contract projections

Bedard is expected to put pen to paper on a top-of-the-market contract, but all signs suggest he won’t demand a deal of that magnitude. Still, after playing through his three-year, $2.85 million entry-level contract, it’s time for him to earn a salary aligned with his role in Chicago—especially as he’s set to become the franchise’s next captain.

According to an April report from the Chicago Sun-Times, Bedard could sign for an AAV in the $13.5–15 million range. There might be a bigger dilemma surrounding the term of the contract. Starting Sept. 16, eight-year deals will become a thing of the past in the NHL.

When could Bedard re-sign with Hawks?

Both Bedard and the Blackhawks have expressed a willingness to make ends meet, and there should be no drama as the two sides work something out. Bedard is taking his time, Chicago won’t rush him, and a deal could be finalized at any point in the offseason.

Now that the league has revealed the full details of the 2026–27 salary cap, there are no lingering uncertainties that might make Bedard’s camp anxious. Everything is clear—Bedard knows what to ask for, and the Blackhawks will—perhaps with a few huffs here and there—agree and get it done.

As reported by Darren Dreger, Team Canada will feature the likes of Macklin Celebrini, Gavin McKenna, Mark Scheifele, and Matthew Barzal during the upcoming IIHF World Championship. Other household names like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid may even join the national team if they suffer early eliminations from the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the 2025-26 NHL season.

However, where Bedard stands is somewhat of a mystery. Fans in the Great White North would love to see the Blackhawks‘ star join forces with fellow North Vancouver native and close friend, Celebrini, while sharing the ice with the projected first overall pick in the 2026 NHL entry Draft, McKenna.

If Crosby and McDavid are to join Team Canada, the prospect is even more exciting. Matthew Schaefer could join the team, too. It all adds up to a perfect opportunity for the new wave of great Canadian talent to showcase themselves at the international level.

Why Bedard may turn down invitation

Bedard has yet to sign an extension with the Blackhawks (set to become a restricted free agent on July 1). The young star and his camp may have some concerns about playing without insurance, so to speak, as an injury in the international tournament could come back to bite him in his next contract in Chicago.

Moreover, Bedard is expected to be named the franchise’s next captain this offseason, and he might think leaving in the middle of the offseason for Europe may send the wrong message throughout the organization in the Windy City. After all, the Hawks are in Chi-town, so they couldn’t care any less about Team Canada’s pursuit for its 29th IIHF World Championship title.

Still, being absent once again could prove costly for Bedard and his reputation with Team Canada. This upcoming tournament is a great chance for him to mend bridges and showcase himself before the 2028 World Cup of Hockey. Even if the IIHF World Championship isn’t the trophy Bedard dreams of hoisting, it might be necessary to participate in it if he wants to play in more meaningful tournaments like the World Cup of Hockey and the Olympics.

Bedard’s history with Team Canada

Bedard declined his invitation to the World Championship last year, as he wanted to focus on improving his game during the summer. He was coming off a rough sophomore campaign, and the move paid off as he registered career highs in the 2025–26 NHL season.

The scenario looks quite different for Bedard at the moment. Though there’s always room for improvement, he’s shown he is already among the league’s elite. However, timing is definitely not on his side. For completely different reasons, Bedard might miss another great chance to represent his country. That’s the bottom line.

Some believe the fact Bedard turned Team Canada down last year has yet to be forgiven. Perhaps it played a role in the decision to leave Bedard off the roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Maybe Team Canada “forgets” to invite Bedard this time around, or the invitation is mysteriously lost in the mail.

When does the IIHF World Championship start?

Regardless of where Bedard’s mind is, the 20-year-old has yet to announce his plans for the summer. The 2026 IIHF World Championship will start on May 15, so time is running short for him to make his intentions clear to Hockey Canada. With or without Bedard, the Canadians have put together a second-to-none squad that is expected to come away with the championship.

Unfortunately for the Maple Leaf, the same was said last season—and the year before that—yet Canada failed to even reach the gold medal game in consecutive years. In 2026, Team Canada will look to snap its drought and avenge last year’s quarterfinal elimination, as well as wipe the sour taste out of its mouth after losing the gold-medal game at the 2026 Olympics.

As it stands, the last time Bedard donned the Maple Leaf sweater was during the 2024 IIHF World Championship. He recorded 8 points in 10 games, as Canada fell in the third-place game against Sweden. Whether Bedard joins Team Canada in 2026, however, remains unanswered.

Bedard’s medal tally with Canada

Although Bedard could put up some resistance to the Blackhawks’ ideal contract, all signs indicate the two parties should agree on a new deal without any hiccups. However, Bedard wants to see progress in Chicago. As he cleared out his locker at the United Center, Bedard dropped a bold statement for the organization and his teammates to listen.

“This has to be the last year of not playing until the end of the year, not playing for something in the playoff standings,” Bedard said, via Ben Pope of Chicago Sun-Times. “That’s on us as individuals. I take a lot of responsibility for that. I feel like we can all just pull with the same rope.”

While putting everybody in Chicago on notice, Bedard didn’t distance himself from the root of the problem for the Blackhawks. The 20-year-old center made sure to own up to his responsibility. Chicago is in need of a captain, and even after yet another disheartening NHL season, Bedard is showing he has the qualities of one.

Bedard is set for an extension

The Blackhawks are heading for a long offseason after missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the sixth straight NHL season. This time around there’s an elephant in the room in Chi-city. Bedard’s entry-level contract (three years, $2.85 million) will come to an end, and the 20-year-old will become a restricted free agent (RFA).

With absolutely no risk of losing him, the Hawks can take their time to find a deal that hits the sweet spot for both the franchise and Bedard’s camp. After spending his first three seasons on a $950,000 AAV contract, Bedard’s net worth will finally take off.

Bedard on contract talks

Negotiations shouldn’t drag on too long, but even if they do, Bedard is showing he couldn’t be bothered to stress about it. That aspect of the business has him carefree. The future captain of the Blackhawks has enough on his plate trying to help the on-ice product improve.

“Honestly, I haven’t thought about it once this year. I know I want to be here. We’ll get it done soon. I don’t think, if it’s not done in a month, there’s any worry,” Bedard admitted, via Ben Pope.

Bedard’s numbers

With a 75-point (30 G, 45 A) season in 2025–26, Bedard reached the 200-point mark in his career. He accomplished the feat in just his third season in the league. Betting on himself in a contract year, Bedard proved his talent once again. He did go through a slump in his sophomore year, but the team did him little to no favors.

Bedard won’t ever call out his teammates, but it goes without saying in the Windy City. The Blackhawks must spend in free agency to surround Bedard with talent. If not, it will be yet another long year for fans in Chicago, with Bedard being left out to dry and asked to carry an entire organization on his back.

When it comes to Bedard, the talent has always been there, and now it’s out there for everybody in the league to see. It’s up to the Hawks to help their franchise savior out for once.

All signs indicate both sides are favoring a quick resolution to the contract negotiations. However, Bedard’s camp may complicate things if they are only willing to accept a certain term on the next contract. The money side of the deal seems to be the one that will be agreed to more easily and quickly.

“The Hawks would love to secure Bedard for eight years. That probably is the most likely outcome, but [Bedard’s] camp could push for a five-year deal,” as reported on Chicago Sun-Times. “That would give him an opportunity for an even bigger payday as an unrestricted 26-year-old, for example.“

Time is of the essence

If the Blackhawks want to re-sign Bedard to a league-max eight-year contract, they must move fast. The NHL‘s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the league and the Players’ Association (NHLPA) will be in effect starting Sept. 16. From that date onwards, the maximum term on a contract will go down to seven years.

Based on Bedard and the Blackhawks’ comments on the situation, it’d be surprising if his extension took that long. However, anything can happen. If the Blackhawks lowball Bedard’s camp, negotiations may dry up, and it could take until the start of training camp for both sides to reach an agreement. If that’s the case, Chicago’s ideal eight-year extension could be off the table.

Regardless of the exact term and salary details, there is little to no chance that Bedard doesn’t sign a long-term contract with the Hawks prior to the start of the 2026-27 NHL season. Bedard will become a restricted free agent (RFA) and he isn’t eligible for arbitration, so there’s really no fear in Chicago that a deal will be agreed to.

Bedard’s value went up

Bedard bet on himself. The former first overall pick in 2023 was eligible to sign an extension starting July 1, 2025. However, he opted to kick the can on negotiations and play on a contract year in the 2025–26 campaign. The move paid off, as Bedard recorded career highs in goals, assists, and points (30, 45, and 75, respectively).

Bedard’s rise was the main item on a very short list of positive takeaways for the Hawks in a season that saw them finish second-to-last in the league. As a result, Bedard’s value has only increased. Reports suggest his next contract’s average annual value (AAV) will be in the $13.5–15 million range, earning him a seat at the table of the best-paid players in the league—deservedly so.

Connor Bedard: In his captain era

With his next contract in Chi-City, Bedard will likely also receive another distinction. The Blackhawks saw the captaincy vacated after Nick Foligno was traded to the Minnesota Wild, and there’s little doubt that Bedard will become the 37th captain in franchise history.

“[Our young players] are going to make some mistakes, and we’re going to have to be patient. It’s part of it, man. It’s part of where we’re at,” Blashill said, per Ben Pope of Chicago Sun-Times. “There’s nothing wrong with failure if you learn from it.”

Blashill pointed out that Chicago boasts one of the youngest rosters in the NHL. The trade deadline moves involving Nick Foligno, Connor Murphy, and Jason Dickinson only lowered the average age of the Blackhawks’ lineup even further. With that come the growing pains the Hawks are now experiencing.

Blackhawks’ losing streak

Dropping three outings in a row is nothing new for Blashill and the Blackhawks. So far in the 2025–26 NHL season, Chicago has had 10 losing streaks of three or more games (including a six-game winless streak). However, the current skid is the worst yet in terms of goal differential.

In their last three appearances, the Blackhawks have been outplayed by their opponents, allowing 16 goals and scoring just 5. Chicago’s all-time worst losing streak in a single NHL season stands at 10 consecutive defeats in the 2006–07 campaign.

Blackhawks can set new franchise low

With eight games left on their schedule and set to face some tough competition, there is still a scenario in which the Blackhawks make history of the wrong kind to close out the season. If they drop all remaining games, the Hawks will register 11 straight defeats, setting a new franchise record in a single campaign.

It would be a less-than-ideal season finale for Blashill, and it may drive the head coach out of a job in the Windy City. There’s a loud buzz growing around Blashill, and whether he is the right man to lead Connor Bedard and the young Hawks. Such a disheartening ending to the season could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

Sullivan praised the contribution of the young players after the win: “I thought the guys played great. You could see the energy the young kids bring to the lineup. It’s contagious with our veteran guys. There were some milestones … I am happy for the players,” he said according to NHL.com.

The three rookies were named the three stars of the game, helping the Rangers reverse momentum and bring fresh energy to a lineup that had struggled in recent weeks. Garand’s strong performance in goal, combined with first-time NHL contributions from Sykora and Fortescue, gave the team a lift on both ends of the ice.

Young players spark energy shift for the Rangers

Garand made several critical saves, including stops on Connor Bedard and Landon Slaggert in the first period. Sullivan noted his consistency: “That’s two really good starts in a row for him, and I’m happy because I know how hard he’s worked to get here.”

The Rangers demonstrated that youth can drive tangible results, boosting veteran performance and helping the team regain confidence in a crucial stretch of the season. This win could mark the beginning of a turnaround fueled by emerging talent.

“We know [Frondell is] a special talent. From everything you hear, super hard worker, super great guy, so I’m just excited to have him over. He’s going to be a good player for us,” Connor Bedard commented on his newest teammate Anton Frondell, via The Athletic’s Scott Powers.

Frondell joined the Blackhawks after his team (Djurgardens IF) back in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) was eliminated from the playoffs. With his season in Europe over, the Hawks decided it was time to fly the 18-year-old across the Atlantic and have him join the squad. Frondell is coming off a 28-point season in the SHL, in which he scored 20 goals and assisted 8 others.

Who will Frondell play with in debut?

Although Jeff Blashill initially dodged a question about Bedard and Frondell potentially playing together, the decision has now been confirmed. The Blackhawks are investing in their young duo right from the get-go.

Frondell will make his NHL debut alongside Bedard and Ryan Greene on the first line. With an average age of 20, the Hawks are now tied with the Sharks for the youngest top forward unit in the league.

What this means for the Blackhawks

This shows just how highly the organization thinks of the Swedish rookie. However, a more pessimistic perspective could see this lineup move as an indicator of how shallow Chicago’s talent depth is. Frondell has yet to take his rookie lap in the league, and he’s already considered a top-liner. Either way, Bedard will welcome him with open arms.

Since he arrived in Chicago, ‘Bedsy’ has yet to be surrounded by top talent, and Frondell has all the tools and potential to become an elite NHLer. The game against the Islanders could be historic. Perhaps it’s the first outing of an alliance that will make much noise in the Windy City.

If the sun ever comes up again at the United Center, it’ll likely be with Bedard and Frondell leading the way. Now, Blackhawks fans finally get to see them together on the ice.

“[Frondell] will be with a good player,” Blashill limited himself to answer, as reported by Kalen Lumpkins of Chicago Tribune.

Blashill may as well have said nothing. As much as the Blackhawks have struggled, calling his players bad would be like shooting himself in the foot multiple times for the head coach. Thus, his answer leaves every possibility on the table.

Where will Frondell play on Blackhawks?

Frondell could join Bedard on the top unit right away, or he might be placed on the fourth line, having to earn his top-six opportunities by spending time on the bottom unit. Either way, Hawks fans are excited to watch Frondell, and they’ll be very disappointed if he isn’t given good opportunities right out of the gate.

For Bedard, the former first overall pick in 2023 has been dreading for a linemate he can build chemistry with. For as long as he’s been with the Blackhawks, Bedard’s line has constantly shifted. He’s seen linemates come and go, and has yet to center a line with true first-line talents around him.

Frondell—the third overall pick in the 2025 NHL entry Draft—could be just that. Still, Blashill is playing his cards close to the chest. Whether the Swedish rookie will join Bedard or another line, it all remains up in the air.

Frondell’s numbers

Only an 18-year-old, Frondell has put up very exciting numbers in the SHL. The teenager tallies 28 points (20 goals and 8 assists) in 43 games this season. Despite playing in a physical league, the 6’1” center has held his ground, and has given Chicago reason to believe he can make the leap to the NHL.

“I don’t think you’re ever ready to be a captain,” Foligno admitted in dialogue with The Athletic. “Honestly, I was never, I’m still not. There’s just so much you learn. But I think [Bedard] would welcome the challenge. He’s a guy that can handle the load, if that’s what you’re asking. He can handle the stress and the responsibility. It’s a learning curve no matter what.”

Needless to say, becoming the Blackhawks captain ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season would mean a lot for Bedard. However, it would also require him to be up for a whole new challenge. Bedard is still young, but has proven time and again to be ahead of his age.

Bedard could be named captain at 21

Bedard will turn 21 years old before the 2026-27 NHL season. While being an alternate captain is a big honor for him, it sometimes feels like too little for the former first overall pick who has the entire future of the Blackhawks organization riding on his shoulders.

Bedard has yet to sign a contract extension in Blackhawks, but all signs indicate that will get done without trouble this summer. And it will likely come with a captaincy, too. It’s the next step, and it’s seemingly on the near horizon.

Some may stand against Bedard being named captain at such a young age, but it might be fitting. The Pittsburgh Penguins named Sidney Crosby captain at 19, and so did the Edmonton Oilers with Connor McDavid. Needless to say, both decisions worked out just fine.

Bedard must be named captain

It may be scary, but perhaps that’s exactly what the Blackhawks need to do: jump into the abyss once and for all. If Chicago stays in its comfort zone, it may never leave the rebuilding phase. If the Hawks are serious about building a championship contender, that wagon has to leave the garage at some point.

When Foligno was named captain—replacing Jonathan Toews—he knew his role was to help Chicago develop the next great leader. Most likely, he wouldn’t be around to see the seed he planted bear fruit. As he watches from Minneapolis–Saint Paul, he can pat himself on the back, for he has done a good job helping Bedard, and it’s now up to the Hawks to hand the kid from North Vancouver the “C”.

Mangiapane had a no-trade clause in his contract, giving him control over his next destination. Rather than wait for another opportunity, he chose to move midseason to Chicago, signaling a willingness to start fresh.

“It was a little tough sledding there in Edmonton. I’m happy to get out and have a nice restart and be with a good organization here,” Mangiapane said, via Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times.

Mangiapane’s performance with Edmonton

Through 52 games with Edmonton this season, Mangiapane has totaled seven goals and 14 points. Those numbers are below his usual production, as he has historically been capable of 15-20 goals per season and even recorded a 35-goal campaign in the past.

Opportunity for a fresh start in Chicago

The Blackhawks hope Mangiapane can regain his scoring touch. A strong performance could help Chicago contend next season or position Mangiapane for a move to a contender at next year’s NHL trade deadline.