Neal Pionik of the Jets destroys Chicago Blackhawks superstar Connor Bedard

After a difficult 2022-2023 NHL season, the Chicago Blackhawks found their franchise savior in Connor Bedard. Connor Bedard made his debut last season and nearly immediately shot to stardom. Bedard was amazing even though he missed almost 20 games of the NHL season due to a broken jaw.

Last night, following a massive hip check to Connor Bedard by Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk, Chicago Blackhawks fans are absolutely furious.

Connor Bedard's right leg appeared to be swept out from under him by the check. Following the significant hit, Pat Maroon of the Blackhawks immediately arrived to defend Connor Bedard. Neal Pionk was being talked to by Pat Maroon the entire time he followed him into the corner. This was precisely the goal of Maroon's signing for the Chicago Blackhawks: to provide Connor Bedard with additional protection.

It appears that Connor Bedard got back up quickly and carried on. For the Chicago Blackhawks, who will be depending heavily on Connor Bedard to carry a lot of the heavy lifting during the 2024-25 season, this is fantastic news.

Following the viral nature of Neal Pionk's hit, Chicago Blackhawks supporters quickly defended him online. Many people appear to believe that Neal Pionk's hit was needless and dangerous.

The Blackhawks cannot afford to lose Connor Bedard after they already lost Artyom Levshunov to a serious injury prior to the start of the season. The Chicago Blackhawks attempted to bolster Connor Bedard this summer by adding key players. Naturally, Pat Maroon was added to the lineup. According to reports from earlier this summer, the Blackhawks attempted to sign Jake Gunetzel in free agency as well, but despite the Blackhawks' best efforts, Guentzel signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Connor Bedard played in 68 games during his rookie campaign, scoring 61 points overall. He did miss a good chunk of time from the previous season due to a broken jaw from a major hit. The Blackhawks must ensure that Connor Bedard finds ways to influence the game while also protecting himself this season.