Chicago Blackhawks Project 2026‑27 Roster Amid Bedard Injury

Chicago Blackhawks face a shaky start to the 2026‑27 season as Connor Bedard’s shoulder surgery sidelines him for roughly 15 games, forcing the club to lock in a full‑season roster now.

How will the Blackhawks line up without Bedard?

Without their No. 1 center, Jeff Blashill is likely to shuffle Tyler Bertuzzi to the top line, pairing him with Frank Nazar at left wing and rookie Roman Kantserov at right. Kantserov, fresh from Russia, brings elite skill that could offset Bedard’s absence. In the middle, Andrew Mangiapane may slide to the second line, while Teuvo Teräväinen stays on the power‑play unit to keep the puck moving.

Which players could step into Bedard’s role when he returns?

When Bedard is cleared for an early‑November comeback, the Blackhawks expect him to reclaim the first‑line center spot. Until then, Anton Frondell, the No. 3 pick in the 2025 draft, will get a taste of top‑six minutes, backed by the veteran grit of Ryan Donato. Donato, though not a permanent top‑six fixture, offers a reliable two‑way game that Blashill can trust in Bedard’s absence.

What does the current standing mean for the rebuild?

The club sits 15th in the Western Conference with a 29‑39 record and is riding a one‑game winning streak. That position underscores the urgency of a strong start; a poor opening could deepen the confidence gap and stall the development of the young core.

Are there any off‑ice moves that could soften the blow?

Cap space remains ample, and Chicago holds three first‑round picks for next year, giving them leverage to chase a top‑six winger via free agency or trade. Rumors swirl around Patrick Kane’s unrestricted free‑agent status, with both the Blackhawks and Buffalo Sabres eyeing a possible return that would boost ticket sales and provide a veteran presence.

What’s next on the schedule?

The Blackhawks’ next test comes against the Minnesota Wild on September 20, 2026. A solid performance could spark momentum, while a loss would highlight the gaps the team must fill before Bedard’s return.

How will the power play adapt?

With Bedard out, the power‑play unit will lean on Teräväinen’s playmaking and Mangiapane’s net‑front presence. If Frondell earns a spot on the first unit, his fresh eyes could add unpredictability, but the group will need to generate at least a 20‑percent conversion rate to stay competitive.

What does the future look like for Chicago?

Beyond the immediate roster tweaks, the Blackhawks are building a pipeline of talent. Landon Slaggert, a promising prospect, could join the AHL affiliate and be called up later in the season. The blend of youth, cap flexibility, and potential veteran returns sets a foundation for a gradual climb out of the conference’s lower tier.