The wait is finally ending for Chicago Blackhawks fans. Connor Bedard practiced in full contact on Sunday, ditching the black non-contact jersey he wore for the past week. This shift signals a major jump in his recovery from a left shoulder injury that sidelined him since July. Coach Jeff Blashill did not rule out Bedard playing in the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old captain looked sharp during drills. He skated as the first-line center and took faceoffs for the first time since his surgery. Bedard told reporters that he feels ready to handle the physical side of the game. “People here see me every day, on the gym, on the ice, and you test [the shoulder], you see where it’s at,” Bedard said Sunday. The team is desperate for his scoring touch, as they have struggled to find the net in their first six games.
A Big Step for a Young Squad
Blashill knows how much this changes the dynamic for his roster. The Blackhawks have averaged just two goals per game without their top scorer. With Bedard back, that number could climb quickly. The coach admitted there is still some uncertainty regarding the exact timeline, but the progress is clear. “A very young team gets their top player back like that, it’s a big deal for any team,” Blashill said. He noted that a doctor’s appointment later this week will likely set the final date for his return.
Bedard has shown steady improvement in his scoring totals over his first three seasons. He moved from 61 points to 67, and then to 75 points. Now, he is eager to get back on the ice and help his team. “I feel really confident in it, and I think they do, as well, to let me do that,” Bedard said. He wants to play as soon as the medical staff gives him the green light.
The Clock Is Ticking for Tuesday
The possibility of seeing Bedard in a red jersey on Tuesday is real. Blashill told NHL.com that he cannot make a final call until he hears from the doctors. “I mean, I don’t want to say until I know more factual stuff from the (doctor’s) appointment,” Blashill said. The original recovery plan was a four-month window, which points to an early November return. Bedard is now ahead of that schedule.
Chicago is currently 1-5-0 on the season, a tough start for any franchise. The team has tied with Detroit for the third-lowest scoring offense in the league. Every goal matters right now. Bedard’s return could be the spark the offense needs to turn things around. “There’s zero doubt that with him in the lineup, we’re a way better team,” Blashill added. The fans in Chicago are ready to cheer him on.
Bedard also mentioned the mental side of his recovery. He spent two months off the ice right after surgery to let his body heal. Now, he is focused on getting his cardio and hands back to full strength. “I feel really good. I feel pretty normal for the most part,” he said. The next few days will determine if he plays Tuesday or waits for the next matchup. Either way, the Blackhawks are closer to their star player than they have been all year.