Connor Bedard becomes the face of a very controversial company
Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
Connor Bedard shocked the hockey world when it was announced that he was joining the controversial Fanatics company to be one of their main faces.
NHL rising star Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks has signed an exclusive memorabilia deal with leading sports merchandise and apparel company Fanatics. The sports apparel company, which this past season obtained rights as the official on-ice outfitter of the NHL, made the announcement Wednesday. With this deal, Bedard takes center stage in the memorabilia division at Fanatics as he shows the world what his prospering career holds.
Because the terms of the deal have not been made public, it is evident that this is a multiyear deal between Bedard and Fanatics' memorabilia division, Fanatics Authentic, based in Miramar, Florida. Under the deal, Bedard will be signing a wide range of hockey memorabilia, including jerseys, pucks, sticks, helmets, gloves, and photos, and intends to keep up the growth of the collection.
In addition to general merchandise, Bedard will also sign game-used Blackhawks equipment, including items from special events like the NHL All-Star Game, should he be selected. The fact that Bedard took home the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie last season will also play a huge role in offerings, with exclusive items commemorating this achievement.
Bedard joins a star-studded cast of professional athletes partnering with Fanatics, including Tom Brady, Auston Matthews, and NBA phenom Victor Wembanyama. Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams inked a similar recent deal for memorabilia and trading cards with both Fanatics Authentic and Topps, each strengthening the position of Fanatics in the sports collectibles market. As Fanatics prepares to plaster its logo on NHL jerseys this season, its new deal with Bedard comes precisely at the best time as the company grows its presence in the hockey memorabilia market.
With Fanatics now branding NHL uniforms, the pact with Connor Bedard marks a major milestone for both the company and its young star. Bedard will become the first-ever exclusive athlete to sign on-ice jerseys manufactured by Fanatics. It's a significant moment that merges the company's presence on the ice with its influence off the ice, enhancing the connection between fans and their favorite players.
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