A rematch between Connor Bedard and Connor McDavid is in limbo as Chicago Blackhawks center is sidelined with a broken jaw. Bedard, the leading NHL rookie, sustained the injury from a hit by Brendan Smith during a 4-2 loss to the Devils. There is no set timeline for his return, but recovery is typically 4-8 weeks. This comes ahead of Chicago’s upcoming game against Edmonton, who is led by McDavid, the reigning Hart Memorial Trophy winner.

Bedard, who was the No. 1 pick in the 2023 Draft, is currently topping all rookies in points, goals, and assists. He has also become the youngest player to be selected to the All-Star Game, surpassing Jeff Skinner. Meanwhile, the hit that interrupted Bedard’s impressive season sparked mixed reactions.

The head coach of Chicago, Luke Richardson, commented that he doesn’t believe Smith had any malicious intent with the hit. On the other hand, Bedard’s teammate, Bris Katchouk, labeled it as “dirty.” Additionally, Nick Foligno is also sidelined due to a fractured finger sustained from a fight with Smith following the hit. In total, the Blackhawks now have nine players on their injured reserve list.