With just 0.8 seconds remaining in the third period, the Chicago Blackhawks were already on the brink of defeat. Now, they face a possible catastrophe.
As the St. Louis Blues secured a 3-2 victory, Blackhawks star Connor Bedard collapsed on the ice, holding his right shoulder in pain. Blues captain Brayden Schenn appeared to shove Bedard during the final play to block the winning shot, causing Bedard’s arm to bend unnaturally.
Bedard exited the ice clearly in pain.
Chicago Sun-Times reports that Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill told reporters after the game that the news was grim and that Bedard is expected to miss at least the upcoming game against the Detroit Red Wings. Blashill described the injury as “a freak accident.”
The Blackhawks hope Bedard’s absence will only last until Saturday. Their next game is Tuesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Bedard will have four days of rest starting Friday.
At just 20 years old, Bedard has already established himself as one of the NHL’s elite players, poised to improve on last season’s stats. He currently ranks third in the league with 44 points and fourth with 19 goals, contributing assists on two of Chicago’s goals during Friday’s game.
This isn’t the first major injury Bedard has faced; he previously missed a month due to a broken jaw in his rookie season.
Fan Take: Connor Bedard’s injury is a huge setback not only for the Blackhawks but for hockey fans who have high hopes for his promising career. His health and performance are crucial for the future excitement and competitiveness of the sport.
