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Blackhawks star Connor Bedard to make season debut against the Penguins

Chicago Blackhawks captain Connor Bedard is poised to make his long-awaited season debut after undergoing shoulder surgery this summer. The highly anticipated return comes as the team faces a challenging start to the 2026-27 NHL season, having won just one of their first six games without Bedard in the lineup.

His absence has left the Blackhawks relying on veteran forward Patrick Kane, who has returned for his sixth game of the season after a lengthy absence. Bedard, who took on the captaincy during the offseason, has been progressing rapidly in his recovery, participating in full-contact practice and taking faceoffs for the first time since his surgery.

Coach Jeff Blashill has indicated that Bedard could be cleared to play as early as Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment for the struggling franchise. The Blackhawks will look to Bedard’s return to stabilize their offense and turn their season around against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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