Reports: Connor Bedard out 6-8 weeks following jaw surgery

Field Level Media|published: Wed 10th January, 11:13 2024

Dec 31, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Chicago Blackhawks at the American Airlines Center. credits: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Blackhawks star rookie center Connor Bedard underwent surgery on his fractured jaw and will be out six to eight weeks, multiple outlets reported Wednesday.

The 18-year-old also will miss the All-Star Game. He was named to the team last Thursday, the day before he sustained the injury from a big hit by New Jersey defenseman Brendan Smith midway through the first period of the Devils' 4-2 victory over the Blackhawks.

Bedard, the No. 1 pick of the 2023 NHL Draft, is having a stellar start to his career with the Blackhawks despite the team's struggles. He leads the team in goals (15), assists (18) and points (33).

With their 12-27-2 record, the Blackhawks are in 15th place in the Western Conference. They next play Thursday on the road against the conference-leading Winnipeg Jets.

—Field Level Media