Connor Bedard could return as Chicago Blackhawks host Washington Capitals on Friday night

The Chicago Blackhawks welcome the Washington Capitals to the United Center on Friday night riding their longest winning streak of the season. The franchise has won four consecutive games despite playing without their franchise centerpiece for nearly three weeks.

However, that situation could change as soon as Friday. The Blackhawks received encouraging news about Connor Bedard's status ahead of the crucial matchup. With the franchise looking to secure their spot in the playoffs, Bedard’s return could prove to be a much-needed morale boost.

Connor Bedard finally looking to return from his shoulder injury

Bedard skated in a noncontact jersey during Tuesday's practice, signaling progress in his recovery from a shoulder injury. The 20-year-old center remains day-to-day but appears close to returning to game action.

The young star has missed 12 games since suffering the injury during a 3-2 loss to St. Louis on December 12. Chicago has posted a respectable 5-6-1 record in his absence, though getting their generational talent back would provide an obvious boost.

The timing of Bedard's potential return comes during the Blackhawks' best stretch of the season. The four-game winning streak represents their longest of the campaign and has helped Chicago climb to 18-18-17 on the year.

Whether Bedard returns Friday night or shortly thereafter, his presence would give the Blackhawks another offensive weapon as they continue fighting for playoff positioning. The franchise needs their young star healthy down the stretch if they hope to make a serious postseason push.

Washington Capitals continue to deal with their own line of injuries

Washington arrives in Chicago dealing with injury problems of their own. Forwards Aliaksei Protas and Tom Wilson remain day-to-day with lower-body injuries. Both players traveled with the team on their brief two-game road trip that ends in Nashville on Sunday.

Wilson skated in a noncontact jersey during Friday’s practice, suggesting he could return soon. The forward will represent Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics, making his health crucial for both Washington and his national team.

Captain Alex Ovechkin continues his march toward history despite the Capitals' recent struggles. The legendary winger needs just two goals to become the third 40-year-old in NHL history to score 20 goals through his first 45 games of a season.

Only Hall of Famers Gordie Howe and Johnny Bucyk achieved that feat previously. Howe scored 21 goals in 1968-69, while Bucyk matched that total in 1975-76. Ovechkin remains on pace to join that exclusive company despite his age.

However, Washington has stumbled lately with a 3-5-2 record over their past 10 games. The Capitals sit at 22-16-6 and need to regain their early-season form to maintain their playoff positioning in the competitive Metropolitan Division.

Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at United Center as both teams look to shake off injury concerns and secure two crucial points

Also Read: Connor Bedard misses Team Canada Olympic roster: Reveals “no hard feelings” despite being left off


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