Connor Bedard has set the bar high for the Chicago Blackhawks, emphasizing that the primary goal this season is nothing less than reaching the playoffs. Although he will miss the initial games following offseason surgery on his left shoulder, Bedard is targeting a return in November, which is crucial for the team’s ambitions.
Bedard’s Impact and Team Restructuring
The 20-year-old forward spoke just days after signing a lucrative five-year, $75 million contract that carries an impressive $15 million average annual value. The Blackhawks have struggled significantly in recent years, missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs in eight of the past nine seasons—including each of Bedard’s first three years after being selected first overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. Last season, the Blackhawks finished with a disappointing 29-39-14 record and found themselves at the bottom of the Central Division for the third consecutive year.
In an effort to revitalize the team, Chicago reshaped its roster over the summer. They acquired defenseman Bowen Byram in a trade with Buffalo on June 23, subsequently signing him to a six-year, $75 million contract on July 1. The Blackhawks also bolstered their lineup by adding forward Jordan Greenway in that deal, along with signing forward Cole Smith to a three-year contract and defenseman Ian Cole to a one-year agreement. These strategic moves aim to enhance the team’s performance both offensively and defensively.
Bedard is optimistic that these new arrivals will elevate the team’s performance, especially after last season’s disappointing average of just 2.56 goals per game, which tied for 30th in the NHL. He believes that the infusion of skill, size, and experience will make a significant difference on the ice.
Bedard’s shoulder surgery on July 2 in Vancouver marked his second shoulder issue in seven months. Last season, he missed 12 games due to a right shoulder injury sustained in December but managed to achieve a career-best 75 points (30 goals, 45 assists) in 69 games. Over his three NHL seasons, he has amassed an impressive 203 points (75 goals, 128 assists) in 219 games, leading the Blackhawks in scoring each year. Bedard stated that opting for surgery was the safest route to prevent future injuries, and he is using this recovery period to build resilience.
Looking ahead, Chicago is scheduled to play two regular-season games in Düsseldorf, Germany, against the Ottawa Senators on Dec. 18 and 20 as part of the 2026 NHL Global Series Germany. This timeline suggests that Bedard should be ready for that trip, which would be a significant milestone in his comeback.
During his recovery, Bedard plans to skate as much as possible during training camp and intends to be at the facility daily to expedite his rehabilitation. He expressed confidence in the roster’s ability to start the season strong and is eager to rejoin the lineup in pursuit of postseason hockey.