Breaking: Chicago Blackhawks Reveal Devastating Injury Update on Star Forward

The Chicago Blackhawks have taken a major hit to their forward group following an injury to star center Connor Bedard, who has been sidelined since Friday night’s 3–2 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

Bedard was hurt during the final face-off of the game with just seconds left in regulation. While lining up against Brayden Schenn, contact from the Blues forward caused Bedard to lose balance and fall backward.

He quickly got back to his feet but was clearly in discomfort, grabbing his right shoulder and showing visible pain. After the game, head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed that Bedard would miss Chicago’s next contest and admitted the outlook was not positive. The Blackhawks have since ruled Bedard out until after the New Year, with a formal re-evaluation scheduled for January.

Blashill, who is in his first season as Chicago’s head coach after spending the past three years as an assistant with the Tampa Bay Lightning, said injuries are simply part of professional hockey. He noted that Tampa Bay is currently dealing with multiple injuries of its own, including several regular defensemen.

“It’s one of those things — injuries happen,” Blashill said. “I just spoke with the coaches in Tampa and they’re missing another defenseman. I think they’re down four regulars. It’s part of pro sports, and obviously Connor is a massive piece for us.”

Before the injury, Bedard had been enjoying an outstanding season, leading the Blackhawks with 19 goals and 25 assists for 44 points. He was on track to surpass his previous career highs in both categories.

Despite the setback, Blashill praised Bedard’s mindset and competitiveness.

“His attitude has been really good,” Blashill said. “He wants to be back right away. That’s how he approaches things. He would’ve liked me to say he’s day-to-day, but the reality is we won’t allow that until after the New Year.”

Blashill also made it clear that Bedard’s injury was not the result of a dirty play. According to the coach, Bedard appeared to be injured before the late contact with Schenn.

“When you watch the face-off, you can see something happened before the push,” Blashill explained. “It occurred as he was trying to move forward on the draw.

It was unfortunate — probably just a freak accident. It had nothing to do with Brayden pushing afterward. That’s a natural reaction after losing a face-off. Brayden is a high-quality person, and there was absolutely no ill intent.”