The Bedard Classic and Return to Action
A look at Connor Bedard's impact on the Winter Classic and new updates on his recovery
Welcome to the THW Chicago Blackhawks Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our team of Blackhawks writers.
In today’s edition, we look at how Connor Bedard is shaping the new landscape of the Winter Classic, as well as his new timeline for his return from injury.
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Now, onto the good stuff…
Connor Bedard is Enough to Earn Blackhawks the Winter Classic
February 13, 2024 by Hunter Crowther
It’s been a difficult 2023-24 campaign for the Chicago Blackhawks, but the team and its fans received some good news on Feb. 6 when the NHL announced they and the St. Louis Blues would face off next season in the 2025 NHL Winter Classic at the historic Wrigley Field, home to Major League Baseball’s Chicago Cubs.
The announcement caused some in the hockey world to roll their eyes as the Blackhawks, who aren’t anywhere close to being a team that competes for a Stanley Cup championship, would be awarded the privilege of playing in another outdoor game. But the franchise hasn’t played in one since 2019 when they faced off at Notre Dame Stadium against the Boston Bruins, meaning they’re due for one.
Bedard Expected Back in the Blackhawks Lineup Next Week
February 12, 2024 by Jim Bay
It seems like it has been forever since Connor Bedard skated in a Chicago Blackhawks game, but the long-anticipated return to the ice is coming nearer. Head coach Luke Richardson said Monday (Feb. 12) that the team expects the 18-year-old phenom to return to action the week of Feb 19. Richardson said Bedard will remain in a non-contact jersey this week, but the hope is that he will be cleared for contact next week. His return to game action shouldn’t be too long after that.
It seems like it has been forever since Connor Bedard skated in a Chicago Blackhawks game, but the long-anticipated return to the ice is coming nearer. Head coach Luke Richardson said Monday (Feb. 12) that the team expects the 18-year-old phenom to return to action the week of Feb 19. Richardson said Bedard will remain in a non-contact jersey this week, but the hope is that he will be cleared for contact next week. His return to game action shouldn’t be too long after that.