Blackhawks’ Star Center Connor Bedard Undergoes Surgery to Repair Jaw Fracture, Expected to Miss 6-8 Weeks: Report

Chicago Blackhawks' rookie center Connor Bedard is expected to miss the next six to eight weeks of action after undergoing successful surgery to repair a jaw fracture he suffered Saturday against the New Jersey Devils, per Frank Seravalli.

Bedard was selected to play in the NHL All-Star game in Toronto on Feb. 3, becoming the youngest player in league history to earn this distinction. Unfortunately, his recovery will prevent him from suiting up meaning the team will need to send an injury replacement.

As previously mentioned, Bedard was injured Saturday after taking a major hit in the first period from the Devils' Brendan Smith. The 18-year-old immediately grabbed his face, skated toward the team's bench and did not return to the ice.

After playing for Regina of the Western Hockey League, Bedard was selected by Chicago with the number one overall pick of the 2023 NHL Draft with lofty expectations. Prior to his injury, he had been living up to the hype.

In 39 games, Bedard has been as advertised tallying 33 points (15 goals, 18 assists) for the Blackhawks. Despite his strong rookie campaign, Chicago has mustered just 26 points and sits at the bottom of the Western Conference's Central Division.