thesun
NHL star Connor Bedard looks set to miss the start of the 2026-27 season.
The Chicago Blackhawks center had surgery on his left shoulder Wednesday.
Bedard, the No.
1 overall pick in 2023, was injured during a training session with Kaivo Hockey in Vancouver.
The 20-year-old was seen smashing into the boards before leaving the ice holding his shoulder.
The Blackhawks released an update on Bedard following the procedure.
[Bedard] is expected to make a full recovery in an approximate timeline of four months, the team said.
READ MORE ON NHL Based on that timeline, the Canadian will miss at least the first month of the season.
Bedard is entering his fourth NHL campaign.
He led Chicago in 2025-26 with 75 points in 69 games, scoring 30 goals.
Despite Bedards strong contribution, the Blackhawks are without a playoff spot with him in the team and continue to struggle as they rebuild.
Chicago have finished No.
31 in the NHL in each of the past three years.
Bedard is currently a restricted free agent having completed the final year of his entry level contract.
The Blackhawks have yet to reveal if theyve entered contract negotiations over an extension.
But were still extending his contract, right? begged one fan on X after news of Bedards injury.
Well.
this sucks but at least he wont miss too much of the season, said another.
Whos the one who made him fall into the boards? I just wanna talk, joked a third.