Connor Bedard's injury officially addressed and it's much worse than expected

In Friday's game against the New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks' rising star, Connor Bedard, took a hard hit that will keep him off the ice for an extended period.

The intense match saw Bedard collide with Devils' defenseman Brendan Smith in the first period.

The impact was immediate and worrying, forcing Bedard out of the game.

Blackhawks fans anxiously awaited updates on his condition, and the postgame report hinted at an undisclosed injury.

Today, Scott Powers, covering the Blackhawks, delivered the unfortunate news, and it's much worse than expected.

Connor Bedard has a fractured jaw.

This revelation suggests a more extended recovery than initially thought, indicating Bedard will be sidelined for a substantial period.

The timeline for Bedard's return remains uncertain, with projections ranging from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture, some players find themselves out for two months like Devils Dougie Hamilton.

The injury may also require Bedard to wear additional protective gear, such as a fishbowl or a full cage, upon his eventual comeback.

The Blackhawks, already facing a challenging season, announced Bedard's placement on the injured reserve list. This news adds to the team's struggles, leaving fans disappointed and concerned about Bedard's prolonged absence.

The focus now shifts to the young player's recovery journey, with hopes for a swift and complete return to the ice.