Connor Bedard to rejoin Chicago Blackhawks lineup Thursday against Penguins, ESPN sources say

CHICAGO -- Connor Bedard is returning to the Blackhawks lineup on Thursday night against the Pittsburgh Penguins, sources told ESPN.

The return is earlier than expected for Bedard, who fractured his jaw six weeks ago. The Blackhawks had initially penciled in next week for a return. Thursday's game is at the United Center in Chicago.

Bedard had been skating with the team recently but has not taken part in any practices with contact. The Blackhawks canceled their morning skate on Thursday, but according to sources Bedard took the ice with extra players and the coaches put him through some contact drills -- which he took well.

The 18-year-old underwent surgery after receiving a hit from New Jersey Devils defenseman Brendan Smith in a game on Jan 5. He returned to the ice just seven days after surgery and immediately began campaigning the medical staff to do as much on ice work as possible while he was sidelined.

In 39 games, Bedard has 15 goals and 33 points -- which still lead all NHL rookies, despite him missing more than a month of action.