Chicago Blackhawks fans will have to wait a little longer to see Connor Bedard in a Team Canada jersey. The star center is reportedly skipping the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship this month to focus on recovering from injuries sustained during the grueling NHL season.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman broke the news, confirming that Bedard will prioritize his health over representing Canada at the tournament, which runs from May 15-31 in Switzerland. It's a smart move for the 20-year-old phenom, who's already thinking about a long and successful career in Chicago.
The decision comes after a tough season for Bedard. He suffered a separated shoulder in a freak accident on December 12, during the final second of a 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues. Coach Jeff Blashill called it a "freak accident" after Bedard collided with Blues center Brayden Schenn during a faceoff. The injury sidelined him for 12 games, and he only returned in early January.
While Bedard reportedly wanted to play in the world championships, he wisely chose to rest and recover for Blackhawks training camp and beyond. This is especially notable given that he was left off Canada's silver medalist roster for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. While former Hockey Canada general manager Doug Armstrong downplayed the injury's role in that decision, it's clear Bedard is taking no chances with his long-term health.
Despite missing 13 games this season, Bedard still posted career highs in goals (30), assists (45), and points (75). It's widely expected that he'll sign a contract extension with the Blackhawks this summer and be named the team's next captain—a huge honor for the young star.
The Blackhawks may still have some representation at the world championships, though. According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, forwards Oliver Moore and Sam Lafferty, along with defenseman Wyatt Kaiser, are expected to play for Team USA. The Americans kick off their tournament on May 15 against host Switzerland.
For now, Blackhawks fans can take comfort knowing their franchise player is putting his health first. After all, a fully recovered Connor Bedard is the best version for Chicago's future—and that's something worth waiting for.