Bedard's Offensive Spark Not Enough as Blackhawks Fall to Predators

Despite a dominant performance from star Connor Bedard, the Blackhawks let a third-period lead slip away in a 4-2 loss to the Predators.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Blackhawks star Connor Bedard brought his best game on Thursday night, generating the majority of his team's offense with a goal and several near-misses. However, the Blackhawks were unable to hold onto a 2-1 lead in the third period, as the Predators scored twice late to hand Chicago a 4-2 defeat.

Why it matters

Bedard's standout performance was a bright spot for the Blackhawks, who are still searching for consistency and a clear power-play quarterback. The loss is a setback in their push for a playoff spot, but the team remains confident that Bedard can lead them down the stretch.

The details

Bedard ripped his 24th goal of the season off a pass from Ryan Greene in the second period and generated 17 of the Blackhawks' 27 total scoring chances. However, the Predators' veteran Ryan O'Reilly scored the game-winning goal with 3:15 left to play, as the Blackhawks' defense let a third-period lead slip away.

  • Bedard scored his 24th goal of the season in the second period.
  • O'Reilly scored the game-winning goal for the Predators with 3:15 remaining in the third period.

The players

Connor Bedard

The Blackhawks' star player, who generated the majority of his team's offense with a goal and several near-misses.

Ryan O'Reilly

The veteran Predators forward who scored the game-winning goal late in the third period.

Sam Rinzel

The Blackhawks rookie who was outmaneuvered by O'Reilly on the game-winning goal.

Ryan Greene

The Blackhawks player who set up Bedard's goal with a savvy pass.

Jeff Blashill

The Blackhawks head coach, who praised Bedard's performance and discussed the team's search for a power-play quarterback.

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What they’re saying

“That's the Connor we've seen lots of.”

— Jeff Blashill, Blackhawks Head Coach (suntimes.com)

“That's on me to put one more of those in and maybe it's a different game.”

— Connor Bedard (suntimes.com)

What’s next

The Blackhawks will continue to search for a consistent power-play quarterback, with several players competing for the role, as they push for a playoff spot down the stretch.

The takeaway

Despite Bedard's heroics, the Blackhawks' inability to hold a third-period lead is a concerning trend that the team will need to address if they hope to make a postseason run. Bedard's competitive fire and offensive prowess, however, provide hope that the Blackhawks can turn things around.