Blackhawks star Connor Bedard named the face of this controversial brand name
Photo credit: Wendell Cruz | Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
In a first and stunning move, the Fanatics brand, which is now the manufacturer and supplier of NHL uniforms, has cornered the market on Connor Bedard.
As they will exclusively sell Connor Bedard's autographs, and memorabilia, is one of many NHLers who have now inked a deal with Fanatics.
The deal will be a multi-year deal and will be the only outlet that can sell Bedard's memorabilia.
The agreement covers collectibles ranging from jerseys to photos. Fanatics has a large-and growing-relationship with the NHL. Fanatics is the league's official outfitter for on-ice uniforms and authentic jerseys beginning this season. Fanatics branding will be directly on official player gear at a pro sports level for the first time as a result.
This will include game-used merchandise as well and could be considered one of Fanatics' best signings as Bedard did have one of the best-selling jerseys in the NHL last season.
«Connor Bedard is one of the NHL's emerging superstars and Fanatics is thrilled to welcome him to our team,» Fanatics executive vice president Victor Shaffer said in a statement. «After a stellar rookie season, he has quickly become a fan favorite, and we look forward to providing hockey fans everywhere with unprecedented access to a premier assortment of his autographs, collectibles and game-worn products.»
Bedard joins a growing list of multi-sport athletes from the NBA, MLB, NFL, and NHL such as Alex Ovechkin, Auston Matthews, Tom Brady, Marvin Harrison Jr., Harry Kane, and Victor Wembanyama.
With Bedard added to the roster, Fanatics have added a money printer for many NHL fans who cannot get enough.
Bedard's 1/1 rookie card made by Upper Deck drove so much demand that a $1 Million dollar bounty was released for the card.
If that is any indication of Bedard's current popularity in the league.
Fanatics influence will be strengthened amongst NHL fans, with Bedard's name on-board, and signing the jerseys will be a literal boon for Michael Rubin and company, as fans will swoop up Bedard memorabilia when possible.
Bedard scored 61 points( 22 G, 39 A) in his first NHL season and won the Calder Trophy in 2023-2024.
Source: Hockey Trade Rumors
Blackhawks star Connor Bedard signs as the new face of a controversial company
Blackhawks star Connor Bedard signs as the new face of a controversial company
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