Chicago Blackhawks star rookie Connor Bedard has been cleared to return to action after missing almost six weeks with a broken jaw.
The Blackhawks announced Bedard's return to the roster before hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday.
The 18-year-old forward from North Vancouver, B.C., sustained the broken jaw in a 4-2 loss at New Jersey on Jan. 5 when he was hit by Devils defenceman Brendan Smith.
He had surgery three days later.
Chicago selected Bedard first overall at the 2023 NHL draft.
Despite his lengthy absence, he entered the game against Pittsburgh tied with Minnesota defenceman Brock Faber for the rookie scoring lead with 33 points (15 goals, 18 assists) in 39 games.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 15, 2024.
The Canadian Press
