What the Blackhawks Gain From Connor Bedard’s Return

Connor Bedard has been activated from injured reserve and is set to make his 2026-27 season debut for the Chicago Blackhawks against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Oct. 13. The star forward missed the opening games of the season following offseason shoulder surgery resulting from an off-ice training incident in Vancouver. His return comes as the Blackhawks struggle through a difficult 1-5-0 start to the campaign.

The Hockey Writers notes that Bedard is expected to play on a line with Roman Kantserov and Patrick Kane after signing a $75 million contract. However, the writer emphasizes that Bedard's return alone will not resolve the team's struggles unless head coach Jeff Blashill stabilizes line combinations and establishes consistent defensive systems.