Connor Bedard returns but Blackhawks' depleted roster struggles

Connor Bedard returned after 12 games, but the Blackhawks, missing several players and both goalies due to a stomach bug, lost 5-1 to the Capitals.

Connor Bedard returned to the Chicago Blackhawks after missing 12 games with a shoulder injury. A stomach bug affected multiple players and staff, and several regulars were unavailable for Friday's game. Coach Jeff Blashill said many players did not feel well and that the illness affected the team's play. The Blackhawks fell 5-1 to the Washington Capitals. Key points: - Connor Bedard returned to the lineup, played 17:07 and recorded four shots but did not register a point. - A stomach bug sidelined several players and staff; Blashill and captain Nick Foligno missed the morning skate but rejoined the team for the game. - Drew Commesso was recalled from the AHL and started after Spencer Knight became ill; emergency backup Dave Nozzolillo was on the bench but did not play. - Washington scored early and finished with a 5-1 win, ending Chicago's five-game point streak and four-game winning streak. Summary: The loss ended the Blackhawks' recent run and highlighted roster challenges caused by illness. Coach Blashill said he was unsure which goalies would be available for Saturday's road game in Nashville and expected Ilya Mikheyev might travel with the team.