The Chicago Blackhawks face another significant setback as star center Connor Bedard is expected to miss four months following left shoulder surgery. The injury occurred during offseason training, a continuation of previous shoulder issues that sidelined him for 12 games last December. This extended absence will cause Bedard to miss the start of the 2026-27 season, with an anticipated return in early November.

Bedard, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance, posting 30 goals and 45 assists in 69 games last season. However, injuries and a struggling supporting cast have hampered his ability to establish himself among the league's elite. The Blackhawks, who have not made the playoffs since 2017, were hoping for a turnaround this season with the addition of Bowen Byram and the emergence of Spencer Knight in goal.

This latest injury to Bedard throws a wrench into those plans, adding to the team's long rebuild. With an already challenging path to contention, Chicago will need other prospects like Frank Nazar, Anton Frondell, and Oliver Moore to step up significantly in Bedard's absence. The team faces a steep climb to reach the postseason, and Bedard's extended layoff reduces any margin for error.