Blackhawks Star May Still Have Path to Olympics

Connor Bedard’s return to the Chicago Blackhawks lineup has breathed new life into the team’s playoff hopes. The Hawks are now four points out of a postseason spot, especially after several pundits left them for dead at the side of the road.

The Blackhawks 6-4-0 record in their last 10 gams has directly correlated with the return of Bedard to the lineup. While his contributions have been undeniable, his return has also stoked the Olympic flames.

Tampa Bay's Loss Could Be Bedard's Gain

In particular, the injury to Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brayden Point a couple of weeks ago opened up the possibility of another roster spot on Team Canada. That roster spot could go to Bedard. At least, that’s what insider Darren Dreger believes.

During an appearance on the Nielson Show, Dreger doubted that Point would be ready in time to hit the ice at Milano-Cortina. Point’s nasty knee injury, while hardly season-ending, may not heal in time for the Olympics. That situation could open the door for several candidates, including Bedard.

Dreger stated:

“Brayden Point, is he gonna be back in time, unlikely; you're looking at Wyatt Johnston; Sam Bennett; Mark Scheifele, maybe Connor Bedard; Zach Hyman, yes, has played his way into the conversation.”

Yes, that’s some stiff competition. But if Team Canada selected Macklin Celebrini, why not Bedard? It’s safe to assume that Bedard didn’t make Canada’s initial roster amid concerns regarding his shoulder injury.

However, any fears about a long-term injury have been dispelled. Bedard’s performance on Thursday night against the Carolina Hurricanes showed he’s just fine.

That’s why it would be hard for Team Canada to pass on Bedard if he’s fully healthy. Of course, Bedard is not a lock for this iteration of Team Canada’s Olympic squad. A more seasoned option, like Sam Bennett or Mark Scheifele, might seem more enticing to Canadian bench boss Jon Cooper.

But then again, bringing in Bedard to compete alongside established stars like Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon could be the perfect way to pave the way for the 2030 iteration of Canada’s Olympic team.