Connor Bedard

Connor Bedard (jaw) has been placed on injured reserve by the Chicago Blackhawks the club announced Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

Bedard suffered the fractured jaw on an enormous first-period hit from Devils defenseman Brendan Smith and was unable to return to Friday’s 4-2 loss. The No.1 overall pick of the 2023 NHL draft this past summer had played a vital role in leading Chicago’s dismal offense to this point, leading the team with 33 points (15 goals, 18 assists) in 39 games so far this season.

Connor Bedard will center the top line for the Chicago Blackhawks in his NHL debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins Tuesday night.

Fantasy Impact

Bedard will look to make an instant impact in the offensive zone Tuesday night, as the No. 1 overall pick of the 2023 NHL draft will likely square off in the face-off circle with Sidney Crosby for most of the night.