Connor Bedard gives an update on his injury

Most hockey fans will agree that 32 Thoughts is the best podcast around, with top insider Elliotte Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas. Friedman is one of the most trusted hockey reporters ever, so when he gives insight into a story, people listen.

On a special episode released this morning, Friedman and Bukauskas sat down with Chicago Blackhawks stars Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar.

Injury Doesn't Sound as Bad as First Feared

Of course, the biggest question was Bedard’s health status. The Blackhawks placed their leading scorer on injured reserve yesterday with what they are calling an upper-body injury. Bedard was asked about the nature of the injury and gave a rather positive reply.

“I guess it probably hasn’t come out yet, so I’ll keep it vague,” he said. “It’s just a shoulder thing, but it’s feeling pretty good. So, I’ll just start the rehab process and hopefully be back as soon as possible.”

ESPN’s Kevin Weekes also reported that Bedard is dealing with a separated shoulder.  

A separated shoulder differs from a dislocated shoulder and is the less severe of the two injuries. A separated shoulder doesn’t directly impact the joint. It occurs when one of the ligaments connecting the collarbone to the shoulder blade is stretched or torn. A dislocated shoulder occurs when the head of the humerus bone is forced out of the socket in the shoulder blade.

Treatment for a separated shoulder typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation for the first few days to reduce swelling and inflammation. As long as there are no severe muscle tears, no surgery is required, and the body just needs time to heal up.

Hence, this is why the Blackhawks said he will be reevaluated after the new year, which is about two weeks away. They are going to let him rest up and see where he’s at before taking the next step toward getting back on the ice. The injury certainly does not sound as serious as initially feared. Everyone is optimistic that he will be back sooner rather than later.