Chicago Blackhawks are set to face a two‑week absence of star forward Connor Bedard after an upper‑body injury, turning to a collective effort as they head to Toronto for a three‑game trip.
Bedard Out for Weeks
The 20‑year‑old center, who has become one of the NHL’s top players in his third season, has been sidelined for at least two weeks because of an upper‑body injury. He was placed on injured reserve on Monday after grabbing his right shoulder with 0.8 seconds left in Friday’s 3‑2 loss to St. Louis. The injury is a major blow to his chances of making Team Canada for the Winter Olympics.
Team Adjusts Strategy
“It’s going to be on everybody to step up and do their part,” center Jason Dickinson said. “Obviously it sucks, but just need guys to step up and be able to make those plays that he’d make on a night in, night out basis,” center Frank Nazar added. Coach Jeff Blashill said after practice, “We’ll get through the new year and then kind of reevaluate and see where he’s at.” He declined to give specifics about the injury but noted Bedard won’t have an operation now, though it could be considered later. “Let’s start with the rehab and see where it goes and I’ll have a better update after that,” Blashill said.
Blashill also emphasized the need for collective effort: “Nobody’s going to replace Connor on their own,” he said. “Collectively, as a group, one, I think we needed to do this anyway, we need to be better defensively. … We’re going to have to score those net‑front‑type goals, the tip‑type goals. We’re not going to score from distance the way Connor can score from distance at a regular rate, so we’re going to have to make sure we’re scoring dirtier.”
Roster Moves and Outlook
The Blackhawks are placing more pressure on Frank Nazar, Tyler Bertuzzi and Ryan Donato to capitalize on offensive opportunities. Nick Lardis, who made his NHL debut in Saturday’s 4‑0 loss to Detroit, could also help out. Captain Nick Foligno is nearing a return from a left‑hand injury and may play on the road trip. On Monday, defenseman Ethan Del Mastro and goaltender Laurent Brossoit were recalled from Rockford of the American Hockey League. Brossoit had been in the minors on a conditioning assignment and will be placed on waivers, returning to Rockford if he clears. Del Mastro, 22, has two goals and four assists in 27 career games with Chicago.
Key Takeaways
- Connor Bedard is out for at least two weeks with an upper‑body injury.
- The team is emphasizing a collective approach to replace Bedard’s production.
- Roster adjustments include recalls of Del Mastro and Brossoit, and increased expectations for Nazar, Bertuzzi, Donato, and Lardis.
The Blackhawks face a challenging road trip to Toronto, hoping that teamwork and new roster moves can offset the loss of their top scorer.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
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