Connor Bedard will not play until November due to shoulder surgery. This timeline comes directly from a medical update provided by the team. It is a tough blow for fans hoping to see the star on the ice soon. The delay forces the Chicago Blackhawks to rely on a weaker lineup for months.
The Surgery Wait Game
Bedard’s agent laid out the details of the contract talks and the medical issue. The decision to wait on surgery is now a reality for the young star. According to Second City Hockey, the player will be out until the fall. This means the team must find a way to win without their best player for a long stretch. The clock is ticking on the 2026-27 season preparation.
GM Kyle Davidson is betting big on a hunch despite the analytics. He has shown he is willing to defy standard data to make moves. This approach is risky when the franchise player is sidelined. The roster projection without Bedard looks much different than the one with him. It puts immense pressure on the rest of the squad to step up.
Depth Moves And Roster Gaps
The team is trying to fill the holes while waiting for the star. They have signed defenseman Ian Cole and forward Cole Smith to add grit. Per reports, these moves aim to stabilize the defensive corps and add physicality. The organization also re-signed prospect goalie Drew Commesso to a two-year deal. These steps show a clear intent to build a tougher team around the injury timeline.
However, a gaping hole remains in the lineup next to Bedard. The Sun-Times notes that this lack of a true second option is a major issue. Without a strong supporting cast, the wait for November feels even longer. The team cannot just rely on defense and hope the offense shows up later.
A Long Road Ahead
The full 2026-27 regular season schedule is now released for fans to study. It shows a grueling road ahead with few easy games against rivals. The Devils are loading up on forward depth, and the Wild acquired a two-time Cup champion. These rivals are not waiting for Chicago to get healthy. They are building teams ready to win now.
Chicago must survive the early season without their top talent. If the team struggles, the patience of the fanbase will be tested. The hope is that the rest of the roster can hold the line. But the reality is that a winless streak could start before the first puck drops.
Do you think the Blackhawks can stay competitive without Bedard until November? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
