Chicago Blackhawks heqd coach Luke Richardson announced on Monday that star center Connor Bedard could be back on the ice as early as next week, recovering from a fractured jaw he sustained on January 5th at the New Jersey Devils. Despite the setback, Bedard has been working, skating, and participating in non-contact drills during practice sessions.
While Richardson didn't specify which game Bedard returns the team has a series of matchups lined up, including games against the Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, Winnipeg Jets, and Detroit Red Wings.
Despite being sidelined, Bedard hasn't let his injury dampen his spirits. He was selected for the 2024 NHL All-Star Game and even joined the announcement for the upcoming NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field in 2025 against the ST Louis Blues.