Connor Bedard celebrated his 18th birthday in style by agreeing to terms on a three-year, entry-level pact with the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday, sources told The Athletic's Scott Powers.

The Blackhawks selected Bedard with the first overall pick at the 2023 NHL Draft. The deal is expected to be made official later on Monday.

Bedard is widely considered to be a world-breaking talent on the same wavelength as fellow No. 1 picks Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. He paced all CHL skaters in goals (71), points (143), and points per game (2.51) in 57 regular season contests as a member of the WHL's Regina Pats this past season.

In honor of his efforts, Bedard won the CHL's Top Prospect Award, Top Scorer Award, and David Branch Player of the Year Award, becoming the first player to win all three in the same campaign.

Bedard was also tabbed the inaugural IIHF Male Player of the Year in June after he potted nine goals and 14 assists in seven games at the 2023 World Junior Championship.

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