What Happened
Chicago Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill told reporters that Connor Bedard is expected to make his season debut Tuesday against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Bedard had been waiting on medical clearance for a shoulder injury he suffered on July 9 while skating with NHL players in western Canada. He practiced Monday on a line with Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov.
Key Details
- Bedard's shoulder injury occurred July 9 while skating with NHL players in western Canada.
- Blashill said Tuesday morning that Bedard is in the lineup.
- Bedard practiced Monday with Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov.
- Chicago is 1-5 this season without Bedard.
- Bedard is the 37th captain in Blackhawks history and signed a five-year, $75-million deal this summer.
- Tuesday's game is 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on Sportsnet+.
What It Means
Bedard's return gives Chicago its captain and top forward back after a 1-5 start. He missed training camp and the preseason while recovering, so his first game comes with limited preparation. His placement alongside Kane and Kantserov at Monday's practice suggests the Blackhawks plan to use him in a prominent role immediately.
What's Next
Bedard is set to play Tuesday against Pittsburgh, his first game since the July injury. His workload and line combinations will be worth tracking as he builds up after missing camp and the preseason.