Bedard, the reigning first overall pick, has been outstanding this season, leading all rookies with an impressive 33 points and is considered a frontrunner for the Calder Trophy. His injury occurred due to an open-ice hit from
Brendan Smith of the New Jersey Devils. Since then, Bedard has shown remarkable determination in his recovery, returning to the ice just 10 days after the injury, albeit wearing a full-face shield and non-contact jersey.