Major update on Connor Bedard from NHL insider Elliotte Friedman

According to a report from Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, rookie superstar Connor Bedard is expected to return to the Chicago Blackhawks' roster this evening when they take on Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

From Friedman:

The 18 year old Calder Trophy candidate still leads all rookies in points despite the fact that he hasn't played since fracturing his jaw back on January 5th.

“We’re hoping after that six-week mark (after surgery), so that will be a week from today, I guess,” Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson said on Tuesday. Just two days later though and it looks like Bedard might be ready to return to action. 

Bedard has been training with the team and practicing on his own since January 15th. He wears a full face shield, which he says he'll be wearing, "for awhile, that's for sure."

“I mean I feel good and ready, but obviously there’s a process of it,” Bedard said earlier this week. “Obviously anyone who’s hurt would say it’s frustrating, but trying to do as much as I can and be prepared when I’m back.”

Bedard said being able to skate this long has provided a boost for his recovery.

“No injury is good, but I think you want to try to be as positive as you can,” he said. “I say that to you, but there’ve been some times when I’ve been upset, of course. But a week after (the injury), I was back on the ice. That’s a positive for sure.”