Chicago Blackhawks Officially Confirm A Shocking Two Player Roster Transaction and Connor Bedard is Happy

Connor Bedard is most definitely smiling ear-to-ear at the moment as his former Team Canada teammate, Ethan Del Mastro, has been recalled by the Chicago Blackhawks.

Bedard, Del-Mastro and Korchinski all won the gold medal for Team Canada at the 2023 World Junior Championship, and Connor earned MVP of the tournament.

Unfortunately for the Blackhawks, this means forward Craig Smith, who suffered a back injury on January 8th, has been placed on the injury reserve.

With a defenseman called up in Ethan Del Mastro, a forward spot is now available, are the Blackhawks buckling up for a big move to acquire Bedard some support up front?

Del Mastro, age 22, has tallied up eight assists in 38 games with the AHL's Rockford IceHogs this season. Although his point production does not stand out, his presence on the ice sure does.

The Blackhawks are busy today, as this is their first of two moves made, check it out:

Del Mastro is the definition of a shutdown defenseman, at 6'4" 205lbs, he puts his weight to use and carries a very physical game; one that is not seen too often in this era of softer-NHL hockey.

The 22-year old appeared in two games for the Blackhawks during the 2023-24 season, making his NHL debut on April 12th, 2024.

Blackhawks fans should be excited to witness Del Mastro in the NHL and will be able to tomorrow at the United Center at 7:00 p.m CT. For info on how to watch tomorrow nights game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, visit How to watch