Bedard's impressive performance seemed to unsettle the Panthers, prompting an unfortunate response. Florida Panthers defenseman Dmitry Kulikov resorted to a questionable hit on Bedard, striking him from behind.
This hit triggered an immediate reaction, with Blackhawks forward Nick Foligno swiftly intervening to defend his teammate. Foligno wasted no time landing a few punches on Kulikov, showcasing the grit and protective instinct the Blackhawks gained when signing Foligno in the off-season.
The incident highlights the intensity of the game and the impact of Bedard's exceptional play on the opposition. As the match unfolds, the combination of Bedard's contributions and the team's determination to shield their emerging star adds an extra layer of drama to the clash against the Florida Panthers.