The Chicago Blackhawks are navigating a challenging period in January 2026, marked by a stomach bug that has swept through the team and the continued efforts to integrate Connor Bedard back into the lineup after a recent illness.
The Blackhawks have struggled recently, losing two of their last three games. However, they remain within striking distance of a Western Conference Wild Card spot, sitting just four points out as of January 14. The team is preparing to host the Calgary Flames on January 15.
Connor Bedard's return to the ice has been closely watched. After missing nearly a month due to a shoulder injury, he returned for two games before being sidelined again due to the recent illness. He missed the January 12 game against the Edmonton Oilers. Bedard has 19 goals and 27 assists in 33 games this season. Despite the setbacks, Bedard participated in practice on January 14 and is expected to play in the upcoming games.
Bedard described the onset of his illness, "It was a little before [morning skate], and then I went to bed for like 20 to 30 minutes, and then I was good enough, and then skated, and then kind of after that, it started coming". He expressed his frustration with missing games, stating, "I tried to get myself up and go. I was trying to get to the game, but it didn't work out, unfortunately. So, it sucks to miss, obviously, but [it] is what it is".
The stomach bug has affected several members of the Blackhawks organization, including head coach Jeff Blashill, assistant coach Anders Sorensen, players Louis Crevier, Arvid Söderblom, Spencer Knight, Ilya Mikheyev, and Nick Foligno. Sam Lafferty also missed practice due to the virus. Knight's return to the lineup after recovering from the illness was a bright spot, as he made 33 saves on 36 shots in the game against Edmonton.
In the game against the Oilers, which the Blackhawks lost 4-1, Tyler Bertuzzi scored his 24th goal of the season. Teuvo Teräväinen left the game early in the first period due to an upper-body injury, further impacting the team's offensive capabilities. Coach Blashill said that Teräväinen's status was uncertain and would be evaluated.
Looking ahead, the Blackhawks hope to regain their health and momentum as they push for a playoff spot. Bedard has historically performed well against the Calgary Flames, with 12 points in six games.
