Chicago Blackhawks standout center Connor Bedard took a significant step forward in his recovery from a shoulder injury as he participated in a partial practice session with his teammates on Tuesday. Wearing a non-contact sweater, Bedard showcased his shooting and skating skills without evident limitations.
Currently on injured reserve due to the shoulder injury sustained on December 12 during a game in St. Louis, Bedard has been sidelined for 11 games. The Blackhawks have struggled in his absence, posting a 4-6-1 record, although they recently celebrated a 3-2 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Despite the team’s challenges, they appear to gain momentum, having secured three straight wins and four out of their last six games as they await Bedard’s return. The young star expressed eagerness to return, stating he felt ready to play just a day after his injury but recognized the importance of prioritizing his health.
“It’s tough being out and watching every game without being able to contribute,” Bedard admitted. “However, witnessing the team’s growth and improvements has been exciting.”
During the recent practice, Bedard displayed the powerful shot that has helped him net 19 goals this season. He was involved in team drills for about 30 minutes before transitioning to individual work. While Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed that Bedard would not be playing in the next game against the St. Louis Blues, he described Bedard’s condition as “day-to-day,” which offers an encouraging outlook for the team.
“It’s great to have him back out there involved in some of the team drills,” Blashill remarked. “It’s great to see the jump that he has. It’s awesome.”
After practice, Bedard expressed optimism about his recovery progress, stating, “I feel really good, got out with the guys a little bit today and keep ramping up. I think we’ve kept the timeline pretty wrapped, but like I said, I’m feeling good and hopefully pretty soon I can get back out there.”
Compounding this positive update, fellow teammate Frank Nazar also joined Bedard on the ice, recovering from a jaw injury incurred on December 20 in Ottawa. The two young players are supporting each other through their rehabilitation journeys.
“The last thing I want is anyone going through it alone,” Bedard noted about his friendship with Nazar. “Having him to push me and me to push him makes us both more comfortable and better when we come back.”
Coach Blashill indicated that Bedard would be reevaluated after the new year and expressed optimism about his return before the NHL’s Winter Olympic break, which begins on February 5.
In addition to his recovery, Bedard is dealing with the disappointment of being excluded from the Team Canada roster for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. While he acknowledges the letdown, he respects the selection process and is determined to use this experience as motivation.
“There’s disappointment for sure, but you respect that there are great players and tough decisions to make,” Bedard explained. “The only thing to do is look in the mirror and see where you can get better. I’m going to play with a chip on my shoulder when I return.”
These developments regarding Bedard signal a promising outlook for the Blackhawks as they continue their season, and the prospect of his return adds to the team’s hopes for sustained success.