On December 12, the Chicago Blackhawks were in a battle with the St. Louis Blues. There were three seconds left in the second period. There was an offensive–zone faceoff for Chicago. In to take the draw was Chicago’s young star, Connor Bedard, a former first overall pick, and Calder Trophy winner (Rookie of the Year). At the time, he had 44 points, which was the most points by any Blackhawk as well as top five in the entire league. Bedard stepped in to take the draw when he was pushed to the ground. The star grabbed his right shoulder and winced in pain. He then skated off the ice, and that was the last Chicago fans would see Connor Bedard for a while. This proved to be detrimental to the Blackhawks because when Bedard was playing, the Blackhawks had thirteen wins and twelve losses. 

After his injury, the Chicago Blackhawks‘ record fell to eighteen wins and eighteen losses. This has led to playoff doubts with the unfavorable roster moves. Connor Bedard was reevaluated at the New Year to determine his estimated return. He has been cleared for non-contact practice, and he has been documented shooting the puck. Coming off a shoulder injury, Bedard’s shot was of concern. Prior to his injury, Bedard had nineteen goals, which proves his worth to the Blackhawks and his availability on the ice. 

Unfortunately, injuries are common for the superstar. He had broken his jaw just a year prior and had previously had a broken wrist before he was with the Blackhawks. With the recent return of Bedard, he proved his importance to the team with a goal in a crushing 6-3 win over the San Jose Sharks. Since his return, he has greatly impacted, not only the game, but the morale of this exciting Chicago team. This could be the spark needed to start something special in Chicago.