Blackhawks star Connor Bedard signs as the new face of a controversial company

Leading sports apparel and memorabilia company Fanatics has inked an exclusive memorabilia deal with Chicago BlackHawks rising star Connor Bedard. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the sportswear brand, which this past season was granted rights to serve as the NHL's official on-ice outfitter. With this agreement, Bedard showcases his flourishing career to the world while taking center stage in Fanatics' memorabilia division.

It is clear that this is a multiyear agreement between Bedard and Fanatics' memorabilia division, Fanatics Authentic, based in Miramar, Florida, because the terms of the agreement have not been disclosed to the public. As part of the agreement, Bedard will sign a variety of hockey memorabilia, such as sticks, pucks, jerseys, helmets, gloves, and pictures, and he plans to continue adding to the collection.

If chosen, Bedard will sign game-used Blackhawks gear, including souvenirs from special occasions like the NHL All-Star Game, in addition to regular merchandise. Offerings will be heavily influenced by Bedard's accomplishment of winning the Calder Trophy as the league's best rookie last season, with special items honoring this accomplishment.

With Fanatics, Bedard becomes part of an elite group of athletes that includes NBA sensation Victor Wembanyama, Tom Brady, and Auston Matthews. Caleb Williams, the quarterback for the Chicago Bears, recently signed similar deals with Fanatics Authentic and Topps for trading cards and memorabilia, further solidifying Fanatics' position in the sports collectibles industry. Fanatics' new partnership with Bedard coincides with the ideal moment for the company to expand its market share in the hockey memorabilia industry, just as it gets ready to emblazone its logo on NHL jerseys this season.

The agreement with Connor Bedard is a significant step forward for the company and its rising star, as Fanatics is now the brand on NHL uniforms. Bedard will sign Fanatics' on-ice jerseys, making him the first-ever exclusive athlete to do so. This moment is important because it unites the company's influence off the ice with its on-ice presence, strengthening the bond between supporters and their favorite players.