Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard remains sidelined by an upper-body injury from last week’s game against the St. Louis Blues, with recovery targeted for early January. The timeline raises concerns about his availability for the 2026 Winter Olympics, as Team Canada prepares to announce its roster on New Year’s Eve.
Bedard, who leads the Blackhawks with 19 goals and 44 points in 31 games (seventh in NHL scoring), suffered the injury late in the loss to St. Louis and is expected to miss the rest of December before reevaluation at the start of 2026. While Chicago anticipates his seasonal return, the prognosis clouds his Olympic prospects.
The 2026 Winter Olympics begin in February, shortly after Canada’s roster reveal on December 31, 2025. TSN’s Darren Dreger and Chris Johnston highlight Bedard’s breakout season but note he may be considered an injury replacement rather than a lock, given competition from stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, and Sidney Crosby.
The Hockey News advocates strongly for his inclusion, calling the 20-year-old a 'needle-moving player' with elite vision and long-term value. Selecting him now poses low risk, as rules permit replacements for injuries. Excluding such a rising talent could hinder Canada’s international edge.
Bedard’s swift recovery will be pivotal, intertwining his club and international futures.