Connor Bedard Returns To Blackhawks Practice In Non-Contact Sweater

Connor Bedard joined the Chicago Blackhawks for the entirety of Monday's practice while wearing a non-contact sweater. Bedard is recovering from shoulder surgery, marking a significant step forward as the Blackhawks prepare for their home opener against the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday.

Head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed that Bedard is not yet cleared for contact, though the forward is reportedly ahead of his original mid-November recovery timeline. Meanwhile, defenseman Bowen Byram returned to practice following the birth of twins, while forward Andrew Mangiapane is listed as week-to-week.