Penguins kick off road trip at Blackhawks, who might regain Connor Bedard

The Pittsburgh Penguins begin a four-game road trip on Tuesday against the Chicago Blackhawks, who may see captain Connor Bedard make his season debut. Bedard is trending toward playing after undergoing shoulder surgery in July and recently receiving clearance for full-contact practice. Pittsburgh enters the matchup following a 2-1 shootout win over Dallas that snapped a three-game skid, while Chicago has dropped five of its first six games this season.

Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill noted Bedard skated on the top power-play unit alongside Patrick Kane during Monday's practice. Meanwhile, the Penguins adjusted their blue line by acquiring Ryan Johnson from Buffalo and pairing newcomer Spencer Stastney with Kris Letang. Chicago remains without forward Frank Nazar, who is serving the final game of a two-game suspension.