Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard to miss start of season after shoulder surgery

Chicago Blackhawks star center Connor Bedard, 20, underwent surgery on his left shoulder on July 8, 2026, after being injured during a training session in Vancouver on July 2. The team expects a full recovery in approximately four months, meaning Bedard will miss at least the first month of the 2026-27 NHL season, which begins in late September. Last season, Bedard led Chicago with 75 points and 30 goals in 69 games.