Connor Bedard Placed on Injured Reserve: Impact on the Chicago Blackhawks

Connor Bedard, the Chicago Blackhawks' star center and leading scorer, has been placed on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury sustained during the final seconds of a 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues on December 12, 2025. The injury occurred while Bedard was attempting to win a face-off against Blues center Brayden Schenn. As Bedard fell backward after contact, he immediately clutched his right shoulder and left the ice in visible pain. Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill described the incident as a "freak accident," emphasizing that it was not a result of any malicious intent from Schenn.

New York TimesUSA TodayDeadspinBlackhawks’ Bedard (UBI) placed on IR, will be re-evaluated in New YearBlackhawks Place Connor Bedard on Injured Reserve With an Upper-Body InjuryNBC Chicago - WMAQESPNThe Globe and Mail (Toronto)HeavyBedard out until at least early January with upper-body injury

Bedard's injury is considered week-to-week, with a re-evaluation scheduled for early January. He will miss at least seven games, including a three-game road trip that begins with a match against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Blackhawks have recalled defenseman Ethan Del Mastro and goaltender Laurent Brossoit from the Rockford IceHogs to fill the gaps left by Bedard's absence.

ESPNNBC Chicago - WMAQBlackhawks Place Connor Bedard on Injured Reserve With an Upper-Body InjuryBlackhawks’ Connor Bedard goes on IR, but it’s not LTIRBedard placed on injured reserve by BlackhawksDeadspinConnor Bedard out until January with upper-body injuryThe Globe and Mail (Toronto)CBC NewsNew York Times

Before his injury, Bedard was enjoying a breakout season, leading the Blackhawks with 19 goals and 25 assists for a total of 44 points in just 31 games, ranking him fourth in the NHL. His performance had positioned him as a potential candidate for Team Canada at the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. However, with the Olympic roster deadline approaching on December 31, Bedard's injury complicates his chances of making the team.

USA Today

Coach Jeff Blashill has expressed cautious optimism regarding Bedard's prognosis, stating that surgery is not required at this time. "Let’s start with the rehab and see where it goes," Blashill noted, highlighting the importance of allowing Bedard time to recover properly. Despite Bedard's desire to return sooner, the team is prioritizing his long-term health over a quick comeback.

Blackhawks Without Bedard Until January, No Surgery Needed For InjuryChicago Sun-TimesBlackhawks deliver Connor Bedard injury update that contradicts what the former 1st overall pick thinksHeavyConnor Bedard out until January with upper-body injuryNew York TimesBlackhawks’ Connor Bedard to be re-evaluated in early January for upper-body injuryBlackhawks’ Bedard (UBI) placed on IR, will be re-evaluated in New YearBedard out until at least early January with upper-body injuryThe Sporting News

The Blackhawks, currently struggling with a 3-8-2 record in their last 13 games, will need to adapt their offensive strategy in Bedard's absence. Blashill acknowledged the challenge, stating, "Nobody's going to replace Connor on their own," and emphasized the need for the rest of the roster to step up defensively and find alternative scoring methods.

Heavy

While the Blackhawks face significant challenges without Bedard, some analysts have pointed out that the team's reliance on a single player for offensive production may expose deeper issues within their roster. The absence of Bedard could force the Blackhawks to reevaluate their overall strategy and player development.

Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard goes on IR, but it’s not LTIR

The Blackhawks will continue their road trip without Bedard, facing tough opponents in the coming days. The team will monitor Bedard's recovery closely, with hopes of reintegrating him into the lineup in early January. As they navigate this difficult period, the Blackhawks will aim to maintain competitiveness in the Central Division and keep their playoff aspirations alive.

Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard goes on IR, but it’s not LTIR

• “Honestly, I think it’s a freak accident,” — Jeff Blashill, Head Coach

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• “Let’s start with the rehab and see where it goes,” — Jeff Blashill, Head Coach

Blackhawks Without Bedard Until January, No Surgery Needed For Injury

• “I think he wants to be back next week.” — Jeff Blashill, Head Coach

Heavy