Despite their fourth straight last place finish, the Chicago Blackhawks were still among the top in NHL attendance in 2025-2026. They drew 776,908 fans at the United Center, the fifth-most in the NHL, and averaged 18,949 fans per home game. Per the Chicago Sun Times Blackhawks beat Ben Pope, they sold out 18 games last season.

Blackhawks attendance: 20,397

Hawks finish out the season with their 18th sellout. This crowd is LOUD, too. pic.twitter.com/wb9hPpjPSJ

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) April 16, 2026

The Blackhawks were still well attended.

One can argue there is a bit of a mislead with those attendance numbers. The United Center’s non-standing-room seating capacity is 19,717, the fourth-highest in the league. The capacity percentage for the season was 96.1%, which was around middle of the road in the NHL. The point being, the Blackhawks drew more fans than most teams because they could hold more, but they filled the arena to capacity or above only a handful of times.

On the other hand, the fact that the Blackhawks could still draw that many people after being more than a decade removed from playoff success shows that the games are still a place people like to go. There are plenty of bad teams that drew far fewer fans, both in total and in capacity percentage terms, than the Blackhawks. Just because the amphitheater is big does not mean it will draw (X) people. Many recall 20 years ago, when the United Center was lucky to get 16,000 spectators inside. The Blackhawks drew under 17,000 fans only five times, mostly on weeknights against non-rival or premier matchups.

All things considered, it was a well-attended season for the Blackhawks. While the results were not there in terms of wins, and patience is waning thin, there were some things to watch with Connor Bedard and young prospects. The team’s centennial anniversary likely also helped draw some people to the games. With all that being said, it’s time for the Blackhawks to win because the fans are more than ready for that again.

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The topic of a looming contract extension for Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard was hard to avoid on Thursday during the team’s exit meetings.

Bedard, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, finished the season with a career-high 75 points on 30 goals and 45 assists through 69 games. Chicago finished the season with a 29-39-14 record, the second-worst record in the league.

Per Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times, Bedard made it clear that he thought he was ready to be named a team captain for next season.

On the subject of a contract extension with Chicago, Bedard gave a terse response to a question about his future. He wants to stay with the Blackhawks.

“I know I want to be here, and we’ll get it done soon,” Bedard said. “I don’t think if it’s not done in a month, there’s any worry.”

General manager Kyle Davidson, who recently signed a contract extension with the organization, suggested the team will have to balance giving Bedard a “fair” salary and keeping enough cap space to build a championship-caliber roster around him.

Contract negotiations could test how much Bedard wants to win, because Davidson appears ready to give his star forward a lesser salary in the promise of putting together a roster that can make the playoffs, something Chicago hasn’t participated in since 2020.

Connor Bedard wants the Chicago Blackhawks to win

Bedard said he’s tired of playing on a team that doesn’t have a chance of making the postseason.

“This kind of has to be the last year of, obviously the games aren’t meaningless, but not playing until the end of the year,” Bedard said, via the NHL. “Playing for something in the playoff standings. That’s on us as individuals. I take a lot of responsibility for that and feel like we can all just pull with the same rope.

“You saw that for kind of the first half of the year. We were in that (playoff) spot and then things kind of, we slid a little bit. As my production went down, I feel responsible for that, which adds motivation. I think all our guys are ready to make that push.”

Now it’s on Davidson to make that push in the offseason.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Blackhawks will finish their season on Wednesday against the San Jose Sharks, but the future of general manager Kyle Davidson was decided before the contest.

The Blackhawks entered the game with a 28-39-14 overall record. Chicago’s 70 points are the second worst in the league. It will be the fourth year in a row the team has finished eighth in the Central Division.

The Blackhawks took off the interim tag and named Davidson the full-time general manager in March of 2022. He has not helped the Blackhawks make the playoffs since navigating a lengthy rebuild. Chicago’s last postseason appearance was in 2020.

On Wednesday, Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz revealed on CHSN that Davidson was extended before the offseason. Chicago believes Davidson is building the best talent pipeline in the league.

“Kyle’s in everything we’ve expected when he got the job,” Wirtz said. “His first task was to rebuild our prospect pool–if you remember, and you were all there, our cupboard was pretty bare. We didn’t have a lot coming in. And he very systematically and very confidently rebuilt that to where I truly believe right now we have the best prospect pool in the NHL.

“Many of those prospects are now actual NHL players, contributing, and, you know, highly impactful on our team. And then, of course, you know, I think we have a really nice visibility to a pipeline of players that will continue to join the Blackhawks over the coming years.”

#Blackhawks Chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz announced that the team has extended GM Kyle Davidson: pic.twitter.com/P1mysQX9tU

— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) April 16, 2026

The Blackhawks’ 70 points and 28 wins are the most the team has had under Davidson by nine points. The 2024-25 team earned 61 points.

Chicago Blackhawks believe in Kyle Davidson

Wirtz thinks Davidson will build a championship-caliber team.

“We didn’t hire Kyle to be the prospect GM,” Wirtz said. “He is building a championship-caliber team, and so I think, you know, probably goes to the point of we’ve extended Kyle’s contract.

“We are committing to Kyle to continue the plan that he has put in place, we feel confident in that we believe that he has the right insight, the right team around him.”

When that team comes around is anyone’s guess.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Blackhawks have officially clinched a top-four pick in the upcoming NHL draft, with a 13.5% chance to win the lottery. And it’s a draft that has prized prospect Gavin McKenna.

They locked themselves at the 31 spot with 70 points heading into their final two games, only ahead of the Vancouver Canucks. It’s the fourth consecutive year the Blackhawks get a top-four pick, though it’s the first time since 2019-2020 they eclipsed the 70-point mark.

The Blackhawks are now locked into 31st place. They're guaranteed a top-four draft pick for the fourth consecutive year.

They'll have a 13.5-percent chance at winning the lottery, 14.1 percent for the No. 2 pick, 30.7 percent for No. 3 and 41.7 percent for No. 4.

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) April 13, 2026

The Chicago Blackhawks have a shot at Gavin McKenna

If the Blackhawks win the lottery, sitting for the taking is Penn State’s Gavin McKenna. The 18-year old Canadian winger tallied 51 points in 35 games with Penn State this past NCAA season, as well as 14 points in seven games in the 2026 World Juniors tournament. Previously, he tallied 129 points in 2024-2025 with the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers. The ultimate dream for any Blackhawks fan would be Connor Bedard and McKenna on the same team.

https://Twitter.com/PSUBarstool/status/2025414616113688857/video/1

Picks 2-4 will still have some intriguing talent for the taking. There is a collection of defensemen projected to go high in the draft. Some names include Soo Greyhounds (OHL) Chase Reid, North Dakota’s Keaton Verhoeff, Prince George Cougars (WHL) Carson Carels, and Jukurit Mikkeli’s Alberts Smits. With the Blackhawks building a blue line with prospects, one of these kids could be an anchor for the group.

Least mesmerizing Chase Reid shift #MyFirstOverall pic.twitter.com/NdQqH1mqqM

— Justin Giampietro (@justingiam) April 4, 2026

In terms of other forwards, one of the highest projected players (not named McKenna) is Frolunda HC’s Ivar Stenberg. The 18-year old from Sweden recently scored 10 points in seven games in the 2026 World Juniors. More notably, he was teammates with Blackhawks first-rounder Anton Frondell on the World Juniors Swedish team.

Ivar Stenberg on Anton Frondell

"He has like everything; he is smart on the ice… He is a powerhouse. He can do whatever the coach tells him to do."

After seeing the connection Frondell & Bedard have, I can only imagine how good the #Blackhawks would be if they took Stenberg pic.twitter.com/0fZi4k1VV6

— The Prospect Don (@TheProspectDon) March 28, 2026

This has got to be it with high picks.

Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson took over in October 2021 after Stan Bowman left. Since he took over, he has led a full rebuild that is now finishing season five. He’s worked to build draft capital and stack up prospects to rebuild the team primarily through drafting and development.

Rebuilds in the NHL take time, but it’s time to take a big step forward. They simply cannot be a bottom-feeder again next season.

Asking for playoffs might not be realistic, certainly not a Stanley Cup run, but this team should ideally be competitive within the 80-90 point range. They have been inching this rebuild along the past few years, but eventually that leap has to be taken. It might be hard, as the free-agent market does not have many in-prime free agents ready to sign. It might require a combination of getting creative with trades, and these kids take a big step on the ice. That’s on the staff to help develop them to get there, and the talent evaluation to find the right personnel to complement them on a team.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are getting ready for their season to officially come to an end. As a result, they need to figure things out in order to improve for next year. With their young talent, they could be prime candidates for a trade this offseason with a team looking to hit the reset button. Let’s take a closer look at one star player who can wind up pairing with Connor Bedard in the Windy City.

The Chicago Blackhawks could trade for Brady Tkachuk this offseason

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The Chicago Blackhawks have been struggling to figure things out this season, being in the basement of the NHL standings. They have some young talent, but will be without one of those players for an unknown amount of time. Let’s take a closer look at who suffered an injury and what it means going forward.

Chicago Blackhawks rookie Artyom Levshunov suffers a left hand fracture

Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill talked to the media on Sunday and gave an update on one player’s status. He mentioned that rookie defenseman Artyom Levshunov suffered a hand fracture and there’s no timetable for his return. The injury took place on Tuesday against the New York Islanders, and he was able to play through it for two games. However, after more imaging was done, the injury was diagnosed as a fracture and took Levshunov out of the lineup.

Levshunov has been struggling a bit to find his footing in the NHL. The second pick in the 2024 NHL Draft has played in 86 career games and recorded 30 points (two goals, 28 assists) thus far. He had not seen any drop in usage, averaging 19:35 of ice time per game. The rookie has some outstanding tools, but they also need him to live up to the hype.

However, he has shown signs ofn the power play, with his ability to be a top defenseman. With nine games remaining in the regular season and no playoffs once again, it will be intriguing to see if the Blackhawks decide to shut down Levshunov for the remainder of the season. Chicago has the most cap space in the NHL this offseason, so getting some players to help him mature into the player he is projected to be will be interesting.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are in a position where they can make a significant addition this offseason. There are some integral players who can be available for the right price. Chicago has strong draft capital after another struggling season. The Toronto Maple Leafs could be looking to move a young star, so let’s take a closer look at why one outlet believes Chicago could be a trade destination for a budding star.

The Chicago Blackhawks are a trade destination for Matthew Knies

The Blackhawks are looking to improve the team this offseason, and there is one way this can happen. Bleacher Report’s Joe Yerdon wrote an article discussing potential landing spots for Toronto Maple Leafs winger Matthew Knies. Below is what he wrote about this potential scenario:

“Whether you put Knies on Bedard’s wing or Frank Nazar’s wing, it would be a major improvement to what they’re working with now. While Tyler Bertuzzi has had a strong season with Bedard, Chicago just needs more, period. Getting a guy like Knies, who can help rush up the wing and use his strength to get to the net, would only be a boost.

“Sure, adding him in a trade would cost some of their prospects or picks, but Chicago has amassed so many of them at this point that using some to add a quality players is part of the reason why you accumulate draft picks in the first place. They need quality players to better surround Bedard and get back to the playoffs and this would be one way to do that.”

Knies can be a star in waiting as he has recorded 57 points (18 goals, 39 assists) through 68 games this year. Pairing him with Bedard would be an excellent duo that can develop together as they approach their primes. Knies just signed a six-year, $46.5 million contract extension, so it will not be a low price for him. It will be intriguing to see if general manager Kyle Davidson can pull off a trade of this magnitude.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are wrapping up another season in a rebuild as they enter Tuesday’s game with 65 points, tied for second-worst in the league. While the Blackhawks are struggling this season, the future is looking bright in terms of the rebuild.

And now, fans will get a look at the organization’s top prospect right away.

Chicago decided to call up top prospect Anton Frondell who was playing in the Swedish League Playoffs this past weekend. Once his team was eliminated, he made his way to the team and now he’s ready for his debut.

Anton Frondell to debut against Islanders

After the call up, Frondell is now expected to play on Tuesday and will do so on the top line with Connor Bedard. This comes nine months after he was taken with the third overall pick in the draft.

For Bedard, he’s excited to play alongside Frondell.

“It’s great,” said Bedard via ESPN. “Just throw him in there and give him the minutes, power play and just have him in the same role he was playing in all year.”

This isn’t a case of rushing up a prospect too soon, either. The Blackhawks need to see what they have and it’s clear that Frondell has done enough for Jeff Blashill to bring him up.

If you’re wondering what to expect from Frondell, here was the scouting report for him following the draft selection:

After registering 0.86 points per game in the Allsvenskan, Frondell is without peer among U18 players at that level of hockey. His per-game production outpaces that of William Nylander, David Pastrnak and Filip Forsberg at the same age. He had another seven points in the playoffs as Djugården earned promotion to the SHL.

So why isn’t he a lock to go in the top five? Frondell, oddly enough, underwhelmed against his own age group and early-season injuries knocked him out of some of the biggest competitions.

When he is at his best, Frondell is a hard-driving forward who can get to the interior and score goals. He is committed to two-way ability and physicality to impose his will on games. Which is why a lot of us were perplexed as to why we didn’t see that regularly with his own age group. The inconsistency is a concern, but his best games are better than most other players in this draft, which in a weaker draft year is worth betting on, in my estimation.

The season might be disappointing, but it will be exciting for fans to see Bedard and Frondell play together.

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Ben Johnson’s first season with the Chicago Bears was a success. After 12 years as an assistant coach in the NFL, the Bears finally gave Johnson his first head-coaching opportunity. The 39-year-old rewarded Chicago’s decision by leading the team to an 11-6 record, which was their best regular-season finish since 2018. The Bears also won the NFC North title for the first time in seven years.

Under Johnson’s guidance, the Bears reached the Divisional Round in 2025. They defeated their bitter rivals, the Green Bay Packers, in the Wild Card Round to progress to the next stage of the NFL playoffs. Unfortunately, the Bears came up short against the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round, 20-17.

Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson attends Chicago Blackhawks game

Johnson has been keeping himself busy in the offseason. Earlier this month, the Bears coach was spotted in a Chicago Bulls game hanging out with Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen. When he was shown on the Jumbotron, Johnson even pretended to take off his shirt. This was an ode to Johnson’s viral moment during the NFL season, when he celebrated a win over the Packers shirtless.

Johnson was out and about again on Sunday. This time around, the former North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback decided to catch some NHL action. Johnson attended the Chicago Blackhawks’ game against the Nashville Predators at United Center on Sunday.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Chicago Blackhawks (@nhlblackhawks)

Johnson’s latest move quickly drew the attention of fans on social media.

“Glad he’s enjoying Chicago,” a comment on Instagram read.

“THATS MY COACH RIGHT THERE,” another said.

“WHAT A MAN!!! ” a user wrote.

“Omg his kids are so cute! ” a reaction read.

“BENNNNNNNN” said another.

“He should’ve gave his famous speech and I guaranteed the Blackhawks would’ve scored 10 goals” suggested a fan.

Unfortunately for the Blackhawks, not even Johnson’s presence was enough to inspire them to victory. Chicago lost to Nashville in overtime, 3-2. The Blackhawks fell to 26-31-13 after Sunday’s defeat. It was Chicago’s second straight loss after Friday’s 4-1 home loss at the hands of the Colorado Avalanche.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are looking to get to the next level as a franchise after another lost season. As the front office is preaching patience, the team has been trying to create a juggernaut with young talent, but the wins are not coming as consistently as some would want. Let’s take a look at why one outlet is putting a member of the Blackhawks organization on the hot seat.

Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson is on the hot seat

Bleacher Report’s Joe Yeldon wrote an article describing some coaches and general managers who are on the hot seat. One name that popped up was Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson. Below is a snippet of why he believes Davidson is on the hot seat:

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The Blackhawks present a particular kind of problem for bettors. A team that sits 7th in the Central Division with a 24-29-11 record does not inspire confidence at first glance, yet these games produce outcomes that reward careful study over casual dismissal. Chicago scores goals in bunches when things click, and they concede them freely when they do not. This volatility creates openings.

Betting on the Blackhawks requires you to abandon the assumption that poor teams offer poor value. The opposite can hold true. Oddsmakers price these games based on public perception, and public perception tends to write off struggling franchises. Your job is to find the gaps between what the lines suggest and what the actual matchup conditions support.

This is a team with Connor Bedard putting up 57 points through 50 games, including 26 goals on a 15.8% shooting conversion rate. The offense has teeth. The defense has holes. Both facts matter when you sit down to analyze any given contest.

Reading the Current Roster Situation

Injuries alter betting calculations more than most bettors acknowledge. Oliver Moore recently suffered a lower-body injury that will keep him out for a considerable stretch. His absence affects lineup depth and shifts ice time allocations across the forward group. Before placing money on any Blackhawks game, you need to check the injury report and understand who fills the gaps.

Tyler Bertuzzi carries 22 goals in 39 games, which ties him for 6th in the league. He has recorded two hat tricks and 10 multi-goal performances this season. When Bertuzzi plays, the Blackhawks possess a secondary scoring threat that opponents must account for. His availability changes the offensive calculus entirely.

Stretching Your Bankroll on Blackhawks Wagers

Sportsbooks compete for bettors with bonus offers, free bet credits, and deposit matches that can extend your betting funds. Scanning the best sportsbook promos alongside loyalty programs and odds boosts specific to NHL games gives you more room to place wagers on teams like Chicago without committing additional capital. Some platforms run hockey-specific promotions during playoff pushes or rivalry matchups.

The Blackhawks sit at 24-29-11, which means their games often carry value on either side. Using promotional credits on a team with a 169-goal offense and 202 goals allowed lets you test betting angles on high-variance matchups without fully risking your own money.

Offensive Output and What It Tells You

Chicago ranks 27th in goals scored with 169 on the season. That number looks poor until you consider the context of specific games. Bedard has posted five points over his last four contests and has reached 60 points, tracking toward a career year. The offense clusters its production. Some nights the puck finds the net repeatedly; other nights it does not.

This clustering pattern matters for totals betting. Blackhawks games trend toward high-scoring affairs given their defensive struggles (202 goals against, 22nd in the league). When you bet the over on a Chicago game, you are banking on both teams contributing. The Blackhawks usually hold up their end of that bargain, for better or worse.

Bedard’s 15 multi-point performances indicate nights when the offense catches fire. Tracking his recent form gives you a data point, though not a guarantee. Hockey remains a team sport, and single players rarely dictate outcomes alone.

Home Ice Considerations

Games at the United Center deserve separate analysis. Home teams in hockey receive certain advantages from last change privileges and crowd support, though these factors carry less weight than in other sports. What matters more for the Blackhawks is travel schedules and back-to-back situations.

A team in rebuild mode with a young core tends to show fatigue more readily than veteran squads. When Chicago plays at home after several road games, the rest factor works in their favor. Conversely, road games at the end of a trip often expose their weaknesses.

Check the schedule before betting any Blackhawks game. Where does this contest fall in their current stretch? Did they play last night? Is the opponent on a back-to-back? These questions affect the outcome more than season-long statistics might suggest.

Betting Against the Blackhawks

Successful betting on a team includes knowing when to bet against them. The Blackhawks give up goals at a rate that makes opposing offenses look good. When Chicago faces a team with strong finishing ability, the opponent’s offensive props become attractive.

You can also consider Chicago as a fade candidate when they face playoff-contending teams with something to prove. The motivation gap between a rebuilding squad and a team fighting for seeding shows up in effort levels during certain periods. Watch for games where the Blackhawks have little to gain and the opponent has much to lose.

Prop Bets Worth Examining

Player props on Blackhawks games offer angles that game lines do not. Bedard’s shot totals and point props draw attention from oddsmakers, which means the lines are usually tight. Lesser-known players sometimes present better value.

Goaltender performance props carry risk given Chicago’s defensive inconsistencies. The team in front affects save percentage and goals against in ways that make goalie props unpredictable. Approach these with caution unless you have specific information about the matchup that others might overlook.

Managing Your Approach Over the Season

No betting strategy survives contact with reality unless you track results and adjust. Keep records of every Blackhawks bet you place. Note the reasoning, the line, and the outcome. After 20 or 30 wagers, patterns emerge. You learn which situations favor your approach and which do not.

The Blackhawks will win some games they should lose and lose some games they should win. This inconsistency frustrates casual observers but creates opportunity for those who study the details. Accept variance as part of the process. Single-game results tell you little. Long-term accuracy tells you everything.

Conclusion

Betting on the Chicago Blackhawks works when you treat each game as its own problem rather than an extension of their season record. Injury reports, schedule spots, and recent form carry more weight than overall standings for a team in transition. The roster has real talent in Bedard and Bertuzzi, surrounded by players still developing. This combination produces unpredictable results that sportsbooks struggle to price correctly. Your edge comes from doing the work that casual bettors skip.

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Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard gave a “friendly” smirk to the crowd in Utah after scoring the overtime winner Thursday night. The Blackhawks 3-2 victory was the second consecutive overtime win, after Frank Nazar blasted the OT GWG against the Mammoth at the United Center on Monday. Bedard finished the game with one goal and one assist. 

The ascention of Bedard is happening before everyone’s eyes, and the likely future captain is showing it in every facet of the game. Thursday night’s game felt like another memorable chapter in that growth.

an instant classic pic.twitter.com/7PWsCPiBUc

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 13, 2026

Bedard putting Utah fans on notice.

The overtime goal was not the only instance in which Bedard stared down the crowd at The Delta Center. Earlier in the game, he assisted Tyler Bertuzzi’s game-tying goal early in the third period with an incredible pass to his fellow Assistant Captain at the doorstep. After Bertuzzi buried the puck into the back of the net, Bedard turned his head and gave a cold stare into the stands. This put people watching and covering the game on notice.

when someone says they prefer J.Dawgs over Portillos pic.twitter.com/kamtXvXjjV

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 13, 2026

As Bedard gave a nice smirk to the crlackedrtime goal, he did a bit of chirping as his teammates began to mob him on the boards. It’s worth noting that the two teams had gotten a bit chippy Monday night in Chicago, and this win completed the Blackhawks season sweep of the Mammoth. Neither Thursday’s nor Monday’s game had a shortage of drama.

After the game, the Blackhawks posted a brief clip on social media of the players heading back into the locker room, fired up, and Bedard giving a tongue gesture. One Chicago fan might remember Michael Jordan sticking his tongue out in Utah and many other places. These are the kinds of moments a young team remembers and hopefully builds on.

pic.twitter.com/74U3X8bGrF

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 13, 2026

A memorable night for Bedard.

While this was not statistically the best NHL game for Bedard, it’s one that he and Blackhawks fans will remember for a while. It helped further create a more no-nonsense, no-fear reputation for Bedard. He is not the kid who needs a lot of protection anymore.

One could think that a new rivalry with the Mammoth had been created, too. Their fans certainly won’t forget it. The clips of the staredown and chirping into the stands will be replayed on NHL outlets and social media many times.

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The Chicago Blackhawks were one of the most active teams during the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline, making a few trades to get future assets. Depending on how you look at it, they did well acquiring draft picks and freeing up cap space, but the talent on the roster makes things a bit less attractive. Let’s take a look at what grade they were able to get for the moves they made before the deadline hit.

The Chicago Blackhawks receive strong grade for their 2026 NHL Trade Deadline moves

Contrary to what the NHL Trade Deadline winners and losers article said, the Blackhawks seemingly had a solid deadline. In an article where each team’s writer graded how they did, Scott Powers of The Athletic gave Chicago a B+ grade for their moves. Below is the snippet talking about why he gave them this mark:

“The Blackhawks were sellers once again. Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson added a few more early-round picks to his cupboard by acquiring first– and second-round selections from the Edmonton Oilers. That was beyond expectations heading into this week. Those draft picks now give the Blackhawks five first-round picks and seven second-round picks over the next three years. Of course, that’s on top of the 11 first-round picks and five second-round picks he’s made over the previous four years. That means the Blackhawks will potentially make 16 first-round selections and 12 second-rounders in seven years. The rebuild hinges on the scouting and development of all those picks.”

The Blackhawks are set in terms of having draft capital, with the next seven years being extremely loaded with capital. Whether the team decides to use those picks or deal some away in exchange for players is yet to be seen, but it will be intriguing to see how general manager Kyle Davidson is able to reshape the roster in the not-so-distant future.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have been one of the most active teams before Friday’s NHL Trade Deadline hit. They officially hit the rebuild button by trading away multiple veteran players on the roster, and are looking to rebuild the franchise in the draft. General manager Kyle Davidson will need to hit on these picks for the trade deadline to be successful. Let’s take a look at how one outlet believes they did this year.

The Chicago Blackhawks are ruled losers after the NHL Trade Deadline

The Athletic’s Mark Lazerus wrote an article discussing the winners and losers of the NHL Trade Deadline. One of the losers he wrote about were the Blackhawks. Below is what he said regarding the team:

“This is now nine consecutive seasons that the Blackhawks — once perennial buyers — have been on the selling side. GM Kyle Davidson did well to get a first-round pick out of his predecessor, Oilers GM Stan Bowman, by packaging Jason Dickinson (on an expiring contract) and Colton Dach (about to get squeezed out of the lineup by younger players with higher ceilings). Davidson also got decent value for Connor Murphy and earned brownie points with future free agents by doing right by Foligno, sending him to Minnesota to chase the Stanley Cup with his brother. But at some point, don’t the Blackhawks have to start adding to Connor Bedard, not just continue to take from him? Those brownie points don’t mean much if you never bring anybody of consequence in.”

He would continue to explain how building specifically through the draft does not work in the NHL.

“No team has ever successfully built solely through the draft. Every team overvalues its own young players, but at some point, you have to turn picks and prospects and players into assets. A 26-year-old established star in the hand has got to be worth two or three promising lottery tickets in the bush.”

The Blackhawks wound up getting a 2027 first-round and a 2028 second-round pick from the Edmonton Oilers, forward Andrew Mangiapane, and defenseman Derrick Pouliot. They traded away Nick Foligno, Connor Murphy, Jason Dickinson, Colton Dach, and Aidan Thompson. It will be intriguing to see how Chicago looks heading into the offseason and if they can turn the franchise around.

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Sad news struck Chicago Blackhawks nation Saturday morning with the passing of former center Troy Murray. He was 63 years old and was fighting a long battle with cancer.

“Muzz” was drafted by the Blackhawks in 1980 in the third round, played 688 games in Chicago, and was part of the team’s broadcasting crew for over two decades. This past October, he was named an ambassador to the team.

We’ll miss you, “Muzz”

From all of us here at the Blackhawks, we extend our deepest condolences to Troy’s family and friends, our alumni and the many fans who loved him dearly

https://t.co/uSli2fiTDw pic.twitter.com/bEqGYq34ts

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 7, 2026

Remembering Troy Murray

Before Jonathan Toews wore #19, it was proudly worn by Murray. A native of Calgary, Canada, Murray had an exceptional NHL career spanning 15 years with the Blackhawks, Jets, Senators, Avalanche, and Penguins. He tallied 230 goals and 354 assists in 915 games played from 1981 to 1996. In his final season as an NHL player, he won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche. Murray officially retired from playing after a stint with the Chicago Wolves in 1997, during which he played 81 games.

Known for being a very good defensive forward, Murray won the Selke Trophy in 1986 and got votes for the award in seven seasons. He came up clutch on several occasions as a Blackhawk, including scoring an overtime goal on April 2nd, 1989, in the season finale to send the Blackhawks to the playoffs. In his 688 games as a Blackhawk, he ranks 21st in goals in franchise history (197), 18th in assists (291), and 19th in points (488).

What many modern-day fans will remember him for is his work on Blackhawks broadcasts on both TV and radio. Having done broadcast work since 1998 with the Blackhawks, he started as a studio analyst, then as a color commentator with Pat Foley, and then spent over a decade on WGN radio with John Wiedeman. He and Wiedeman had the privilege of calling the dynasty on the radio from 2010 to 2015, providing memorable moments for fans alike. In recent years, Murray had to deal with his illness away from the booth for notable amounts of time, but he always kept fighting and worked when he could.

Murray’s legacy.

This season has been all about honoring the 100-year history of the Blackhawks, and Murray is a key part of that history.

Murray will be remembered by Blackhawks fans for a very long time. His impact as a player and as an in-game educator on the airwaves will have a lasting impact on multiple generations of hockey fans. As will his work as a steward to the community and organization. Not to mention his courage and positive attitude during his battle with cancer serve as an inspiration for fans everywhere.

YouTube has plenty of 720 radio calls from the dynasty; no better time than now to relive them.

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The Chicago Blackhawks were once again sellers at the NHL Trade Deadline on Friday afternoon. Their final move included moving captain Nick Foligno to Minnesota, reuniting him with his brother and sending him to a contender.

With Chicago’s rebuild still on going, eventually the team needs positive results. They already have a star in Connor Bedard who they took No. 1 overall a few years ago and building around him remains the focus.

But what is Bedard’s future in Chicago? One NHL insider had great news regarding his status with a long-term extension.

NHL insider says Connor Bedard is ‘in for the long haul’

During an appearance on CHSN on Thursday, insider Frank Seravalli was asked about Bedard’s future in Chicago. He brought up an extension, telling the hosts that Bedard is here for the long haul.

“Look, I think everyone wants to snap their fingers and make it happen. This has been a lengthy, methodical and patient rebuild. Everyone wants to see the Blackhawks take that next step forward, most important Connor Bedard. But he’s in lock step with the Blackhawks organization in terms of that plan. . . He will be signing a long-term extension at some point this Summer or offseason. The question is for how much? That’s really all that’s left for the Blackhawks and Bedard to figure out. Because he’s in the for the long haul. He gets it. He sees the plan coming together.”

"He's in for the long haul. He gets it. He sees the plan coming together."@frank_seravalli says Connor Bedard will be signing a long-term extension with the #Blackhawks this offseason, it's just a question of for how much. pic.twitter.com/8Czj0lhmSQ

— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) March 6, 2026

There really was never much doubt that Bedard wouldn’t get a long-term extension. It doesn’t make sense for the Blackhawks not to do it and by all means, Bedard hasn’t shown any signs of not wanting to be here.

Now, the next step after locking up Bedard is making sure to get this rebuild sped up as much as possible.

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The NHL Trade Deadline is rapidly approaching, as there are only a few more hours for teams to make trades. The Chicago Blackhawks have been active over the last few weeks to send away players and hoping to get younger talent or draft capital to bolster the team in the future. The front office could decide to stay put with less than six hours before the 3 pm deadline officially hits. However, there is one player who continues to be rumored to possibly be traded. Let’s take a closer look at who itis and why his name is still in the rumor mill.

The Chicago Blackhawks could still trade Ilya Mikheyev before the NHL Trade Deadline

The Athletic’s trade board is a way to see some of the names who could be traded ahead of today’s deadline. The Blackhawks have one player on the list in right wing Ilya Mikheyev. Below is the description that the trade board has for him:

“A big winger capable of playing up and down the lineup, Mikheyev brings a fair amount of versatility with his game. He’s been deployed as a penalty-killer throughout his NHL career and is a threat to score short-handed. Not only is Mikheyev a pending UFA, 15 percent of his contract was retained by the Vancouver Canucks in a previous trade, so the cap hit on his deal is eligible to be reduced further.”

The 31-year-old winger has a little more than a $4 million current cap hit. However, it has been rumored that Chicago may be done with trading players this season. Mikheyev has been struggling offensively, but is posting a +1.4 net rating on the defensive side of the ice. It will be intriguing to see if a contending team can make a trade offer that forces general manager Kyle Davidson to make an additional deal before the 3 pm ET deadline.

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Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno has been traded to the Minnesota Wild, as first reported by ESPN’s Emily Kaplan. The 38 year old center will get a chance to win a Stanley Cup in Minnesota with his brother. As Kaplan mentions, this is a “doing right by” move by Kyle Davidson for their captain. Foligno’s $4.5 million will all go to the Wild, with the Blackhawks getting future considerations from the Wild, per TSN’s Pierre LeBrun.

While this move can seem surprising at first, given he was the captain, it makes more sense once broken down and considering the Blackhawks’ future goals.

The Wild are trading for Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno, where he can play with his brother Marcus per sources.

This is Chicago doing their captain a solid to chase a Cup. No retention (Blackhawks don’t have retention spots left)

— Emily Kaplan (@emilymkaplan) March 6, 2026

Nick Foligno traded to reunite with brother

Foligno served as a leader to this young group, including mentoring Connor Bedard. He scored 35 goals and 48 assists in 189 games in a Blackhawks sweater, while also helping protect the kids on the ice. In September of 2024, he was named the 36th captain in franchise history, the first since Jonathan Toews. The Blackhawks opted to give the experienced veteran the “C” over Bedard at the time, who was just getting his feet wet in the NHL.

Head coach Jeff Blashill has given Bedard and now Tyler Bertuzzi an “A” for now. There is plenty of speculation that Bedard indeed will be the next captain, which could happen this offseason, but time will tell. It feels unlikely the Blackhawks will not have a captain next season, regardless.

https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/2029963667626660079

Safe to say, Foligno served his time in Chicago very well and made an impact on the next generation of Blackhawks players. He has been in Chicago since Bedard made his NHL debut in 2023. Regardless of this deadline, Foligno was not going to be a Blackhawk next season as his contract was up, and he is nearing the end of his career. While losing a captain on a young team feels significant, the season is winding down, and it’s all about the future now. It was time for both parties to move on.

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The NHL schedule has been weird this year due to the Winter Olympics, but one Chicago Blackhawks player thinks there needs to be a permanent change. With the NHL Trade Deadline looming on Friday afternoon, there are a handful of teams that will be preparing to play later in the night to continue their season. However, it will come just hours after learning if they will remain with their respective team or be traded away. Let’s take a look at what the Blackhawks’ captain said regarding playing on Friday.

Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno is not a fan of playing during the trade deadline

During his media availability, Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno would comment on how he is not a fan of the NHL schedule having games on the day of the trade deadline:

“I always thought that was stupid, personally. I just think it’s such a distraction for everybody. Regardless of if you’re on the block or not, I just think it’s a weird day. And I don’t know why the league hasn’t decided just to make it a practice day for everybody. … It’s a weird day. It’s part of being a pro, but I don’t know why it has to be a game on that day. Just make it a certain day every year and go with it.”

Chicago is at home on Friday night to face the Vancouver Canucks, six hours following the 2025-26 NHL Trade Deadline. They are one of seven games on the slate, but it makes sense for players not to be too keen about the schedule, due to some of them being moved right before the official deadline hits.

Foligno is one of the players on the Blackhawks who could be moved to a contender before the deadline officially hits. The veteran left winger has been with the team since the 2023-24 season, and the 38-year-old has been contemplating his future while also being on an expriring deal. It will be interesting to see if the Blackhawks are done making trades this season or if Foligno could be another player dealt.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have been active ahead of Friday’s NHL Trade Deadline, making a few moves to sell pieces off in exchange for draft picks. With this being a seller’s market at the moment, it makes sense for the team to be open to moving players for whom the franchise does not see a future with. However, there is a bit of a downer if you are expecting the Blackhawks to continue trading away players. Let’s take a look at the latest update surrounding Chicago.

The Chicago Blackhawks could be done making trades

Scott Powers of The Athletic is reporting that the Blackhawks could be officially finished making trades ahead of Friday’s deadline. Below is the update that he wrote:

“The Blackhawks could be done for the deadline. They certainly don’t feel the same urgency they did earlier in the week. They thought they could utilize their two remaining cap retention spots and pile up some more early-round picks. They were able to do that by acquiring a first- and second-round pick from the Edmonton Oilers for Connor Murphy and Jason Dickinson.

“It’s possible the Blackhawks could still move Nick Foligno and Ilya Mikheyev in the next few days. If the Columbus Blue Jackets or someone came calling for Foligno, it’d be up to him if he wanted to be dealt. The Blackhawks will show him that courtesy. With Mikheyev, the Blackhawks were hoping to re-sign him, but he’s rejected their offer so far. There’s still an outside chance that could happen before the deadline. And if he doesn’t re-sign or get traded by the deadline Friday, there is always the possibility that both sides take the additional time to negotiate some more.”

The Blackhawks have made a few trades this season that have helped them acquire draft capital for upcoming drafts. With the team out of the playoff picture and hitting the reset button on the 2025-26 season, it will be intriguing to see if a contending team can come up with an offer that makes them reconsider.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are one of the more intriguing teams ahead of Friday’s NHL Trade Deadline. Despite having a team that is in contention for one of the top picks in the draft, they could trade away some players and see what they have with some of their younger talent. There is an interesting name that could be moved in the next couple of days, so let’s take a closer look at who it is.

The Chicago Blackhawks could trade away Ilya Mikheyev before Friday’s trade deadline

Scott Powers of The Athletic wrote an article where he discussed what he has heard regarding the Blackhawks ahead of Friday’s NHL Trade Deadline. In the article, he discussed how right winger Ilya Mikheyev could be one of the players who is traded before the deadline. Below is what he wrote about Mikheyev:

“Ilya Mikheyev could also still be traded. As with [Jason] Dickinson, it would have to be the right offer to make a Mikheyev trade worthwhile. There is also still an outside chance the Blackhawks will re-sign Mikheyev. He turned down their latest offer, but the talks aren’t necessarily dead.”

Mikheyev has been a good player for the Blackhawks since joining ahead of last season. In 136 games with Chicago over the last two seasons, he has recorded 57 points (31 goals, 26 assists) while being +2 when on the ice. He is on the final season of a four-year, $19 million contract that he signed with the Vancouver Canucks. Powers did mention how the Blakhawks could still re-sign Mikheyev this offseason, which could be something that happens whether he is traded or not this week.

The team has not been shy about trading players, already dealing away defenseman Connor Murphy to the Edmonton Oilers. It will be intriguing to see what the Blackhawks decide to do, as there are certainly going to be some teams that are looking to add to their second or third lines with a player on an expiring deal.

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The Chicago Blackhawks made a trade on Wednesday night as they have traded away another starter while looking towards the future. After a rough 2025-26 season, the Blackhawks front office is looking to acquire draft capital in order to make the team better in the future. However, they have made a move with less than 48 hours before the NHL Trade Deadline. Let’s take a closer look at what the move was and what it means going forward for the Blackhawks.

The Chicago Blackhawks traded Jason Dickinson to the Edmonton Oilers for a first-round pick

According to hockey insider Frank Seravalli, the Edmonton Oilers and Blackhawks have agreed to a trade. The Blackhawks are sending center Jason Dickinson and forward Colton Dach in exchange for forward Andrew Mangiapane and a 2027 first-round pick (top-12 protected). Mangiapane was placed on waivers earlier this week, but has recorded 14 points (seven goals, seven assists) and posting a -19 on the ice over 52 games this season.

Mangiapane signed a two-year, $7.2 million contract this offseason, but it appeared there were some issues of finding a role. Chicago taking the full contract is certainly a way how they were able to land a first-round pick in this deal as well.

Dach is an Edmonton native and has gotten more action in the NHL over the last year, scoring nine points in 53 games this year. He was considered the 10th-ranked prospect for the Blackhawks entering the season. With an additional first-rounder in next year’s draft, the team is going to be able to use that draft capital to either move up in the draft or simply get multiple quality players next offseason on rookie deals.

Dickinson has been struggling this season as he posted 13 points (six goals, seven assists) in 47 games this year. He has not recorded any points since before the Olympic break. With the Oilers getting better, this trade gives the Blackhawks a chance to get even better a few years down the line. It will be intriguing to see if there are more trades from Chicago before Friday’s deadline.

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After serving the Chicago Blackhawks blueline for nine seasons, Connor Murphy departs the Windy City after being dealt to the Edmonton Oilers. The Blackhawks will get a 2028 second round pick in return, while retaining $2.2 of his $4.4 million salary per Mark Spector. Murphy, 32, was the longest-tenured Blackhawk and was just acquired by the man who brought him to Chicago back in June 2017, Stan Bowman.

https://x.com/NHLBlackhawks/status/2028606409185567214

Blackhawks say goodbye to Murphy.

Murphy was a very solid defenseman for a number of years. While he was never quite an All Star caliber player, he was a workhorse who gave the Blackhawks 547 games and 10697:36 of ice time. Those 547 games are the 12th most games played by a defenseman in franchise history. Over that time, he blocked 1,123 shots, delivered 1,077 hits, had 143 takeaways, scored 34 goals, and had 90 assists. He also had the honor of sporting the “A” on his chest.

Unfortunately for Murphy, he arrived in Chicago just after the dynasty ended. It’s easy to forget he was drafted by the then-Phoenix Coyotes 20th overall in the 2011 draft and played four years with them before being acquired in a trade for fan-favorite Niklas Hjalmarsson. He never got to play for a postseason crowd at the United Center, only a COVID-bubble playoff in 2020 with no fans at a neutral site.

The Oilers are clinging to third place in the Pacific Division in a playoff spot. It’s not a huge needle-mover, but it adds defensive depth and experience for the Oilers. Safe to say fans will wish him nothing but the best. As it’s been said many times, he served his time in Chicago; it was time to move on.

What this means for the Blackhawks.

Murphy was expected to be traded, but not expected to net a big return. Getting a second-rounder in 2028 is indeed not huge, but an okay bit of additional draft capital for the future. Retaining half the salary was probably compensation for getting the second-round, as opposed to a later one and trading away all of his salary.

The blueline will be filled with guys 24 or younger. Only Matt Grzelcyk is over 25 among active defenseman. Time will tell if he is traded or not. It will be all about seeing what likes of Artyom Levshunov, Kevin Korchinski, Sam Rinzel, Alex Vlasic and Louis Crevier can do down the stretch.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are not having the season they were hoping for when the NHL Trade Deadline approached. As things currently look, they are sitting in one of the top spots for the 2026 NHL Draft as they are unable to secure many points. With another season of missing the postseason likely coming, there are some decisions that the front office need to make before next Friday’s deadline.

Let’s take a closer look at how one writer believes the Blackhawks should approach the nect week with their team.

The Chicago Blackhawks are considered to be moderate sellers at the NHL Trade Deadline

The Athletic’s James Mirtle wrote an article ranking the biggest buyers and sellers as the NHL Trade Deadline approaches. In the article, he lists Chicago seventh in terms of being sellers, and below is what he wrote about the Blackhawks:

“They’re creeping into the lottery conversation again after a pile of losses over the last six weeks, and it’s time to sell to keep stocking the cupboards for better days ahead.”

The Blackhawks are seventh in the Central Division with a 22-27-9 record and 53 points on the season. They have some players on expiring contracts who can give the team a chance to acquire draft picks. Below are some players on the roster who are set to be unrestricted free agents after this season:

• Nick Foligno
• Connor Murphy
• Jason Dickinson
• Ilya Mikheyev
• Matt Grzelcyk

It will be intriguing to see which players are no longer on the Blackhawks once the March 6 deadline hits. General manager Kyle Davidson has to make a decision on what the future will look like, and what assets he can acquire by trading away some pieces of the 2025-26 Blackhawks team.

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The NHL trade deadline is approaching fast and the Chicago Blackhawks will likely make a few moves. There are no expectations for blockbuster transactions, as they have no crippling cap deals to unload or high-value veterans to trade for mass draft capital. A series of smaller moves, garnering moderate returns at best, feels like the likely outcome.

Much of the roster is made up of young players or veterans with solidified spots on the team going forward. Thus, the speculative focus will on the handful of veterans on expiring deals.

Candidates for the Blackhawks to move.

The one who stands out the most is defenseman Connor Murphy, the longest-tenured Blackhawk, who is in the last year of his four-year deal ($4.4 million AAV). The 32-year old has 12 points with a -5 +/- and is averaging 16:30 of ice time a game this season. Contending teams will be looking for more blue line depth, and for what it’s worth, he’s been playing better recently. Murphy served his time in Chicago, but he’s not part of the team’s future plans.

The other veteran defenseman on the team on an expiring deal is Matt Grzelcyk. He’s been durable, playing in all 57 games so far. While not out of the question to move, one can argue that having him stick around as a vet among the young defensemen is worth more than what the Blackhawks would get in a trade. Especially if Murphy is dealt.

There are three veteran forwards on expiring deals: Nick Foligno, Jason Dickinson, Ilya Mikheyev, and Sam Lafferty. It’s hard to imagine the Blackhawks wanting to trade their captain and mentor to Connor Bedard. Unless Foligno wants one more chance at Stanley Cup glory and Kyle Davidson does right by him. Mikheyev has been a decent third-line forward, sporting 31 goals and 57 points in 132 games. He does have a modified NTC, and keeping him could be beneficial for the team’s development the rest of the season, but he’s still a possibility. The team has a handful of centers, and Dicksonson ($4,250,000 AAV) could easily be an odd man out.

Others on the Blackhawks roster

Don’t expect the Blackhawks to move the likes of Tyler Bertuzzi or Ryan Donato. Bertuzzi is under contract through 2027-2028 and currently leads the team in goals (25), while Donato was just extended through 2028-2029. They have solidified roles going forward.

Teuvo Teräväinen is under contract for another season. He’s posting “meh” numbers at best, making $5.4 million this year, and has had a recent injury. It would be a bit surprising if he got moved regardless. They signed him to be a stable forward presence. André Burakovsky is another vet under contract for another season who has also been pretty pedestrian since a good start (3 goals, 9 assists over his last 30 games) while making $5.5 million. Possible to get moved, but not necessarily high.

Strange things have happened, so there’s always potential for surprise. The odds of that just seem very low. The Blackhawks are past the point of tearing things down; it’s now about building on that foundation.

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The Chicago Blackhawks could really be a force this offseason with the 2026 NHL draft. While we have some time with the Olympic break happening, it is a great time to assess the field and look into some mock drafts. Which players are on the board that the front office could be interested in? Chicago has a pair of first-round picks, their own and the Florida Panthers (with a top-10 protection). Let’s take a closer look at who one publication has them mocked to draft and why.

The Chicago Blackhawks draft offense in the first round of Bleacher Nation’s 2026 NHL mock draft

The Blackhawks have a pair of draft picks in the Bleacher Nation 2026 NHL mock draft. Tab Bamford posted an article where he broke down the first round of a mock draft. Below is his explanation of the team drafting center Tynan Lawrence with the sixth pick in the draft:

“If the top five of our mock draft proves to be how the top of the 2026 NHL Draft plays out, the Blackhawks could be the most fascinating team in the draft. Lawrence is a really good prospect who I’m comfortable is good value for Chicago in this spot, even if his numbers since making the mid-season jump to Boston University have been underwhelming. But the intrigue comes with the next line of defensemen on the board, and what some of the offers might be to trade up to get one of them.”

Lawrence recorded 17 points (10 goals, seven assists) in 13 games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL before making the jump to Boston University. However, he has struggled to be as effective in his first 10 games, as he has just one goal thus far.

That is not the only player Chicago can walk away with in the first round of the draft. Thanks to the Seth Jones trade with the Panthers, the Blackhawks own their first-round pick as well. However, there is a top-10 protection on the pick, meaning if the pick is within the first 10 selections, Florida would retain the pick and give the Blackhawks their 2027 first-round pick. In this mock draft, they have the Blackhawks making the 10th pick with left winger Ethan Belchetz.

“The Blackhawks already have a strong collection of prospects coming. What they don’t have a lot of is size that could impact their top six forward mix. The Hawks have seen plenty of Belchez this season; he’s a teammate of Chicago prospect AJ Spellacy with Windsor. Belchetz is a legit power forward with size (6-5, 227) who can score.”

Belchetz has been performing well in the OHL with the Windsor Spitfires, as he has 52 points (30 goals, 22 assists) over 48 games. It will be intriguing to see how Chicago navigates after the Olympic break through the remainder of the regular season.

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On March 1st of last year, the Chicago Blackhawks traded defenseman Seth Jones and a fourth round pick to the Florida Panthers for Spencer Knight and a 2026 first round pick. Not only did it look like the Blackhawks got their future goaltender, but possibly another lottery pick in the upcoming draft. The Panthers’ pick is sitting at the 10th spot heading into the Olympic break.

Today, reports indicate that the Panthers’ pick is top-10 protected. Hockey insider Frank Seravalli initially reported it, only to be confirmed by The Athletic’s Blackhawks beat Scott Powers. First, the Chicago Bears get jipped by the Ian Cunningham saga, and now Blackhawks fans are scratching their heads nearly one year after the Jones deal. This condition was agreed upon by the two teams, but it was not made clear to the public.

The Florida Panthers' first-round pick is top-10 protected, as @frank_seravalli reported.

So what happens if the Panthers do pick that early? That and more about the Blackhawks' 2026 draft possibilities https://t.co/N224JzBCv9

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) February 6, 2026

What does this mean for the Blackhawks?

When it was unclear that Florida’s pick was not top-10 protected, the hope was simple: the Panthers lose as many games as possible this year. Now that it appears the pick is protected, the Panthers would not have to surrender their pick to the Blackhawks if they are in the top-10 lottery picking. Per Powers, a first round pick would go to the Blackhawks in 2027 if that were the case. The Blackahwks get Florida’s pick this year if it’s outside of the top-10 lottery pickings.

It’s worth noting that when the trade went down last year, hockey insider Pierre LeBrun initially reported a condition that the Panthers 2026 selection was going to the Blackhawks if they still had the pick. That was because of the Matthew Tkachuk trade with Calgary in 2022. So if the Panthers had a top-10 lottery pick in 2025 (which was conditional), their 2026 pick would have gone to Calgary and the 2027 pick to the Blackhawks.

This condition did not seem like a big deal, as it was pretty clear at that point that the Panthers were not going to be a top-10 lottery pick. Unless another deal was made before the draft, it seemed like the Blackhawks were simply getting a 2026 first rounder from Florida.

Chicago Blackhawks draft outlook going forward

Now, a Blackhawks fan can either root for the Panthers to win to get an inferior first round pick this year, or hope that the 2026-2027 Panthers lose as many games as possible to get a lottery pick from them in 2027. Powers confirmed the 2027 first rounder would have no protection.

Either way, it’s a pretty big change in what people thought could happen with the Blackhawks draft this year. The idea of having two lottery picks in the upcoming draft in a season in which the team’s youth movement is taking a step forward is pretty exciting. But, alas. Rooting for a lottery pick from the Panthers next season, while not impossible, feels like a Hail Mary hope for fans.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are coming off a rough game on Thursday against the Pittsburgh Penguins, but center Connor Bedard was able to get a goal in the game. He continues to be a shining light for the franchise trying to take that next step, but he was able to make some history for the franchise in this game. Let’s take a closer look at what Bedard did in the game and what record he now holds for the Blackhawks.

Connor Bedard breaks franchise record for most goals scored before turning 21 years old

The Blackhawks did not have a good night on Thursday, losing on the road to the Penguins 6-2, but Connor Bedard continued to impress. While the game was completely out of reach late in the third period, Bedard scored his 21st goal of the season. While it did not mean much in terms of the final score, it did etch him into the franchise history books. That goal was the 66th goal of his career, making him the franchise leader in goals scored before turning 21 years old.

Bedard has a lot of time to continue creating separation for the franchise record as well, as he will not turn 21 years old until after the season concludes. As Chicago continues to fight to remain in the Western Conference playoff picture, Bedard continuing to be able to score can keep the team in the race. Bedard has been struggling to find the back of the net since returning from his injury, as this was just his second goal in 10 games since returning after a month.

It will be intriguing to see how Chicago and Bedar are able to play as they are on a four-game losing streak now. With the NHL Olympic freeze coming next week, this is a chance to end this part of the season with some momentum, led by their franchise star.

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Showtime has finally done it. Former Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane officially made NHL history on Thursday night.

More news: Chicago Bears lose Ian Cunningham to Atlanta Falcons GM position

During the 2nd period of the Detroit Red Wings’ Thursday night game with the Washington Capitals, Patrick Kane scored a game tying goal to get his 1,375th career point.

Patrick Kane is now the NHL all time points leader among American-born players

More news: This Chicago Blackhawks star is their biggest trade piece ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline

Kane has officially passed Mike Modano to become the official all time point leader by an American-born player in the history of NHL.

https://Twittercom/nhl/status/2017053272645816823?

Number 88 is currently in his 19th season and is not slowing down one bit. In his 15 seasons in Chicago, Kane had the second most points in franchise history. And now, he has officially proved himself to be the greatest American-born hockey player of all time.

If only he was able to break this record in a Blackhawks jersey instead.

1,375 POINTS AND COUNTING FOR PATRICK KANE

Showtime passes Mike Modano for the most points all-time by a US-born player pic.twitter.com/N9SLauQ5Ca

— ESPN (@espn) January 30, 2026

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The Chicago Blackhawks were badly outlasted by the Florida Panthers on Sunday night.

More News: Blackhawks activate Connor Bedard ahead of Friday’s game

The Blackhawks entered the third period tied 1-1, but the Panthers went on a four-goal run to end the contest with a 5-1 defeat in front of 19,313 fans at the United Center.

Before Friday’s 3-1 loss against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Chicago was sitting at .500 with a 21-21 record. After a two-game home stand this weekend, the Blackhawks are 21-23, and five points behind the San Jose Sharks for the last spot in the Wild Card.

Third-year forward Connor Bedard has scored just three total points and one goal in eight games since returning from his right shoulder injury. The Blackhawks recently moved him to wing, and head coach Jeff Blashill has been tinkering with the lineup to try and give the offense a boost.

Per Gail Kauchak of The Hockey Writers, Blashill told reporters after Sunday night’s loss that he thought he might have “hurt” Bedard by switching the lines.

“You’re out for a long time, it’s hard to get your mojo back…we’ve kind of played with the lines,” Blashill said. “Maybe that’s hurt him. Sometimes you’re trying to spark guys & you end up hurting him by making too many changes.”

Blashill on sparking Bedard: #Blackhawks

"You're out for a long time, it's hard to get your mojo back…we've kind of played with the lines. Maybe that's hurt him. Sometimes you're trying to spark guys & you end up hurting him by making too many changes."

— Gail Kauchak (@littlegailk) January 26, 2026

The Chicago Blackhawks need Connor Bedard to find his mojo

More News: Blackhawks star is their biggest trade piece ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline

The Blackhawks were unable to convert on there of their power play opportunities against the Panthers. Blashill suggested that while he doesn’t want to continue changing up the top two lines, Chicago might need to switch personnel for the power play.

“We have to break the puck in better, and we have to win more loose-puck recoveries,” Blashill said, via Ben Pope of the Chicago Tribune.

The Blackhawks will next play the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday night. The 29-14-10 Wild will be a challenge for Chicago before they travel to play the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night.

It’ll be interesting to see what lines Blashill sticks with. Right now, he has Bedard in a funk coming off of his injury. For the Blackhawks to stay competitive, Bedard needs his mojo back.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Blackhawks are fighting to be in the postseason picture as they are currently five points out of the final Western Conference Wild Card spot. The team has some intriguing options that they can make as we are getting closer to the NHL Trade Deadline. Chicago has some pieces that they can move ahead of the deadline, so let’s take a closer look at what their biggest piece is right now.

The Chicago Blackhawks’ biggest trade piece is Connor Murphy

NHL’s Adam Gretz wrote an article discussing every team’s best bargaining chip they can use at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. For the Blackhawks, Connor Murphy’s name was selected and he wrote the following about why he believes this is the case:

“The Blackhawks have shown some improvement this season, but are still probably not quite ready for a playoff spot. They figure to be sellers again, but should not be in a full teardown mode. Eventually, they need to start focusing on talent acquisition. Still, Murphy could be an attractive option on the trade market given his strong defensive and physical play, and the fact that there aren’t many defensemen likely to be available.

“The Blackhawks also have a number of young defensemen just breaking into the NHL who need bigger roles and minutes. He has been a strong, reliable player on some bad teams in Chicago, and now he might get a chance to play for a contender after the deadline.”

Murphy is a solid veteran who is in the final year of a four-year contract worth $17.6 million. With a $4.4 million average annual value this year, and that number being closer to $2 million with where we are in the season, this is something a contending team could view as a valuable addition for a playoff push. Murphy has nine points (two goals, seven assists) through 50 games thus far and has shown himself to be a strong defenseman on the ice. This would be a sentimental hit as well, though, with Murphy being the longest-tenured Blackhawks player on the roster.

It will be intriguing to see if the Blackhawks decide to move him and if so, what return he brings for the franchise.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are set to host the Washington Capitols on Friday night at the United Center. With Alexander Ovechkin coming to town, there’s some star power on the ice in Chicago.

But now, another star is set to make his return for the Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks announced some roster moves ahead of Friday’s game including activating Connor Bedard from injured reserve:

Chicago Blackhawks announce roster moves

The Chicago Blackhawks today announced that the team has activated forward Connor Bedard (upper body) from injured reserve. Additionally, the team has recalled defenseman Kevin Korchinski and goaltender Drew Commesso from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

Bedard, 20, has posted 44 points (19G, 25A) in 31 games during the 2025-26 campaign. He leads all club skaters with 25 assists and 44 points, while his 19 goals rank second. Bedard was named the NHL’s Third Star of the Month for November, recording 10 goals and 23 points in 14 games. He’s currently four goals shy of matching his career high from last season.

Korchinski, 21, has skated in 32 games with the IceHogs this season, logging 19 points (2G, 17A). He shares second on the team and leads all club blueliners with 17 assists this season. He also leads all Rockford defensemen with 19 points.

Commesso, 23, has competed in 19 games with Rockford during the 2025-26 season, notching a 6-11-3 record, a .909 save percentage, a 2.72 goals-against average and one shutout.

The Blackhawks play the Washington Capitals tonight at United Center at 7:00 p.m. CT. The game can be seen on CHSN and heard on WGN Radio.

via the Blackhawks

Bedard was hurt in the Dec. 12 loss to the St. Louis Blues, missing 12 games. The Blackhawks went 5-6-1 in those 12 games without Bedard but have won four-straight.

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Patrick Kane made history Wednesday night scoring his 500th career NHL goal, becoming the 50th player to accomplish that feat. Kane scored his 499th earlier in the evening in the Red Wings 5-1 victory over the Canucks. His milestone tally came on an empty net wrister with 3:53 left in the third period.

The 37-year old winger and future Hall of Famer scored 446 of his 500 goals with the Chicago Blackhawks.

SHOWTIME'S GOT 500 NHL GOALS pic.twitter.com/PQfeu7TTLk

— NHL (@NHL) January 9, 2026

Blackhawks fans still love Patrick Kane

Even if it makes some Blackhawks fans sick seeing him do it in a Red Wings jersey, there is still much love for Kane in Chicago. It’s just too bad that the milestone goal could not happen in a Blackhawks sweater at the United Center. Remember that his 400th career goal was scored in front of zero fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As expected, the Blackhawks social media team acknowledged the milestone of arguably the best player in franchise history.

showtime gets his 500th

congratulations @88PKane !! https://t.co/fLLaLbfrev

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 9, 2026

It’s hard to believe Kane last wore a Blackhawks sweater on February 22, 2023. He spent 19 games with the Rangers after being traded that year and has since played 152 games with Detroit, tallying 49 goals and 83 assists with the Wings. Even at an older age, he has shown he can still play solid hockey; he’s averaged 21 goals and 53 points over his last two full seasons.

Kane could have one more shot at glory if the Wings make the playoffs. He can add to his career 53 playoff goals and 138 playoff points.

Patrick Kane makes NHL history

Kane is often called the best American-born player in NHL history, or at least one of them with Mike Modano still having the goal edge (561). He is now one of six active players with 500 goals or more, including Alex Ovechkin, Sidney Crosby, Steven Stamkos, Evgeni Malkin, and John Tavares. All of those players made their NHL debuts between 2005 and 2008.

In terms of catching other Blackhawks greats, Kane is 13 goals away from catching Jeremy Roenick, 25 away from former teammate Marian Hossa, and 41 away from Stan Mikita. He has a ways to go to catch Bobby Hull, who scored 610 NHL goals.

No matter what sweater, Kane’s legacy lives forever in Chicago. Third-most goals in franchise history and a catalyst in three Stanley Cup championships will never be forgotten. He should retire as a Blackhawk when that day comes.

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Hall of Fame goaltender and Chicago Blackhawks legend Glenn Hall has passed away at the age of 94. The team made an official announcement Tuesday night, with chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz releasing a statement.

https://x.com/NHLBlackhawks/status/2009086989677810045/photo/1

Remembering the career of Glenn Hall, aka “Mr Goalie.”

Hall was one of the greatest players to wear a Chicago Blackhawks sweater. Born on October 3rd, 1931 in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Hall began his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings in 1952. After a few brief stints between Detroit and Minors, he finally played a full season in 1955-1956, winning the Calder Trophy. In June 1957, the Blackhawks made a historic deal with their arch rivals acquring Hall and aging Hall of Famer Ted Lindsay for Bill Preston, Hank Bassen, Forbes Kennedy, and Johnny Wilson.

Hall would play 10 years in Chicago. He was hockey’s “iron man,” holding the record for 502 consecutive games played in goal, a streak that will never come close to being broken. As a player Hall helped pioneer the “butterfly” style of goaltending and is said to have thrown up before every game.

One of his greatest accomplishments was his contribution to the 1961 Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks. Sharing the ice with the likes of Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita, and Pierre Pilote, Hall played in every single contest that season and helped lead his team over his former Red Wings in six games to win the Cup.

Hall would end his final few years with the St. Louis Blues from 1967 to 1971. He finished with a 2.50 GAA, .918 save percentage, 84 shutouts, and 53,446:58 minutes played in 906 NHL games. He’s tied for 12th on the all-time goalie wins list with Jonathan Quick (407). Other hardware includes 11 All Star honors, three Vezina Trophies, and was the 1968 Conn Smythe winner despite the Blues losing effort in the finals.

He did all of this without wearing a mask or protective headgear of any kind.

Hall’s legacy in Chicago

Hall was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1975. On November 20, 1988, he and the late Tony Esposito had their numbers retired at Chicago Stadium. Their banners hang at the United Center today. It’s been half a century since Hall suited up for the Blackhawks, and several generations never saw him play. However, the stories have lived on. One can still find the occasional Hall sweater being worn at the United Center.

In a season in which the Blackhawks are celebrating their storied past, the loss of Hall hits even harder. Recently, “The Originals” were celebrated by the Blackhawks, with Hall being one of them. The Blackhawks held a moment of silence for Hall on Tuesday night, alongside Hall of Famer Bob Pulford, who passed away earlier in the week.

https://x.com/CRoumeliotis/status/2009096496592060702

Rest in peace, Mr. Goalie.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are set to face off against the Washington Capitals tonight.

Unfortunately, the 2025-26 NHL season has not gotten off to a great start. Right now, the Blackhawks hold a 15-18-7 record and badly need to find a way to come through with a winning streak of some kind.

Entering tonight’s game, one of the big question marks for Chicago has been the health status of star center Connor Bedard.

Bedard has been out of action since December 12 following a rough collision against the St. Louis Blues. He suffered a shoulder injury and his absence has been felt greatly by the Blackhawks.

Prior to playing the Capitals, Chicago revealed a new update about Bedard’s status.

Jeff Blashill, the team’s head coach, spoke out with an update. Fans will like what he had to say about Bedard.

“He’s certainly excited to be out there and shooting, and it looked like he was ripping it pretty good yesterday,” Blashill said.

Obviously, it would have been much better to hear that Bedard would be playing. That isn’t the case with this update, but the progress he has made hints that a return could be coming soon. Getting him back on the ice will be crucial for the Blackhawks to have any chance at turning this season around.

In the 31 games he has played this season, the 20-year-old star has scored 19 points and recorded 25 assists. He has shot 18.4 percent.

Hopefully, the Chicago Blackhawks will have its franchise player back in action soon. This is a great update for the Blackhawks, but fans are still waiting for the news that he’s good to play.

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The Chicago Blackhawks saw their star center, Connor Bedard, did not make the Team Canada roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Team Canada was announced on Wednesday afternoon and there were a few notable omissions from the roster, but Bedard’s name was one of the more significant. While their roster is stacked, and this is the first time in more than a decade that NHL players will be competing, it was intriguing to see his name left off the final cuts. Let’s take a look at how the Blackhawks are seeing this for their young star player.

Blackhawks coach makes his feelings known about Connor Bedard being off the Team Canada roster

On Thursday afternoon, ahead of the team’s home game against the Dallas Stars, Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill would give his thoughts about Bedard being left off Team Canada for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

“I have a ton of respect for how hard these decisions are. Honestly, Canada, the US, Sweden, you have a lot of really good players that you’re going to ultimately leave off these teams. The one thing I would say is, I don’t think the rest of the league knows how good of a two-way winning hockey player Connor has become. That’s the one thing, and I don’t know why. Maybe it’s based on previous years. But I don’t think they have a full understanding of how good a winning hockey player he is today.”

Blashill would continue to discuss how the defensive metrics that decision-makers look at do not tell the whole story of how well Bedard plays.

“I’ve read some things about defensive metrics and things like that. I would tell you, I’ve studied those things tons [and] I’ve never seen defensive metrics that I trust to say to me whether or not a guy’s a good defensive player. I don’t think they judge what they’re supposed to judge yet. I don’t think we’re there yet.  We’re all working to try to get there, we’re not there. The metric that I trust is your impact on winning. The reason why I know he’s a big-time winning hockey player [is] when he was in our lineup, we were one point out of the wild card and since then we’re 1-6-1. That’s the impact he’s had… You don’t have that impact if you’re just a point-getter. You only have that impact if you’re a true two-way kind of winning player, and that’s what he’s become.”

When asked about if the upper-body injury Bedard suffered kept him off Team Canada, their general manager, Doug Armstrong, would say that it did not play a role. There is still a chance he will make the team as an injury replacement, if they need one, but it is clear that Chicago believes Bedard should have gotten the call to be on the roster.

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Team Canada is one of the most exciting rosters heading into the 2026 Winter Olympics. One of the biggest question marks would be if Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard would be selected. However, when the roster was announced, Bedard’s name was left off the list. One major decision maker for the Olympic team answered a major question regarding why he was left off the roster. Let’s take a closer look at why the young star did not make Team Canada’s initial roster.

Team Canada general manager reveals injury didn’t keep Connor Bedard off the roster

Following the announcement of the Team Canada roster, general manager Doug Armstrong would do a Q&A with TSN. When asked about if Bedard’s injury was factored into the decision to keep him off the Team Canada roster, Armstrong revealed his injury did not play much of a part in missing the team.

“Not a lot, quiet honestly. His name was right there until the last second, because we could’ve named him [to Team Canada] and then move forward. But I think the reality is, there are so many good players and we just had difficult decisions to make.”

Bedard has been dealing with an upper-body injury since Dec. 4 and was placed on Injured Reserve. However, he did not need surgery. Bedard has showcased is talents throughout the season as in 31 games, he has recorded 44 points (19 goals, 25 assists) with 13 of those points being on the power play. However, in Year 3, Bedard has been left off the initial roster. This does not mean he will not be part of Team Canada though, as he can be one of the players as an injury replacement if that is how Armstrong decides the roster to be.

It will be intriguing to see how Bedard officially reacts to the news and what this means going forward. He returned to the ice a few days ago, but has no timetable to return at this time. If he does not get on the roster as an injury replacement, he will have to wait until 2030 in Nice, France.

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Pittsburgh Penguins vs Chicago Blackhawks Live Blog, score, play-by play & chat

Will Connor Bedard play vs the Penguins?

No, Connor Bedard is sidelined with a shoulder injury and will be reevaluated in early January.

What is the latest injury update on Chicago Blackhawks’ Connor Bedard?

The latest injury update on Connor Bedard is that he is sidelined with a shoulder injury and will be reevaluated in early January after missing the rest of December

The post Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Chicago Blackhawks: LIVE Blog, score, play-by play & chat; Connor Bedard Injury Update- Dec. 28th, 2025 appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks have been one of the teams in the bottom of the NHL standings, but they have a lot of talent. One name who has been a top-tier player when on the ice is center Connor Bedard.

He has shown the ability to dominate already in his young career, but he could be getting the nod to join his countrymen. Let’s take a closer look at what one writer said regarding his chances to make the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Connor Bedard is a sleeper pick to join Team Canada

NHL’s Tracey Myers suggested that Bedard is one of the biggest sleeper picks for the Olympics, as he should be part of Team Canada.

“The Chicago Blackhawks forward was on the outside looking in regarding Team Canada when the season began but momentum started building for him after his tremendous start. He’s out with an upper-body injury until at least the start of January but I still believe he deserves a spot with Canada. When Bedard was placed on injured reserve Dec. 15, he had 44 points (19 goals, 25 assists) in 31 games. At the time, he was fourth in the NHL behind Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche (55), Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers (52) and Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks (47). Bedard has come into his game in a big way and once he’s back, he should be prepping for the Olympics.”

This is also not the only Blackhawks player to be named on this list either as Tyler Bertuzzi also was also mentioned for Team Canada. Bedard has the potential to be the next face of Team Canada, and making the 2026 Winter Olympic team would certainly be a step forward to that. Sidney Crosby is 38 years old, Nathan MacKinnon is 30, and  Sam Reinhart is also 30. Getting a young potential face of the NHL on the Olympic roster would be critical for Team Canada and hockey as a whole.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have some players who would fit perfectly in the 2026 Winter Olympics. While the deadline for the 12 teams to submit their rosters is Dec. 31, with the announcement of players coming soon after, there is one Blackhawks player who has made a case to be joining the roster. He may not be the first name you think of for a spot on the Olympic team, but he has shown the ability to dominate. There will be some tough decisions to make, so let’s take a look at one Chicago player who has made a case for himself to be a sleeper option for the Olympics.

NHL writers believe Tyler Bertuzzi is a sleeper pick for the 2026 Winter Olympics

In an article where NHL writers suggested sleeper picks for the 2026 Winter Olympic teams, editor-in-chief Bill Price decided Team Canada should add Tyler Bertuzzi to their squad. Below is the snippet he wrote about the Blackhawks’ left winger:

“Yes, [Connor] Bedard is the leader of the Blackhawks, and if he’s healthy, he should represent Canada. And while Bedard has gotten most of the attention, Bertuzzi has been just as effective for the Blackhawks, especially in the so-called dirty areas of the ice. Per NHL EDGE stats, Bertuzzi has scored 15 goals from high-danger areas, which is tied for the NHL lead with Jake Guentzel of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The high-danger area is the area within 29 feet of the center of the goal and bound on both sides by an imaginary line drawn from the face-off dot to two feet outside the goal post. In layman’s terms, not only is he unafraid to go into the tight areas around the net; he also has a knack for scoring greasy goals. Canada needs a guy like that.”

Each country has already submitted six names for the preliminary rosters back in June. Team Canada announced the following players at that time:

• Sidney Crosby
• Nathan MacKinnon
• Cale Makar
• Connor McDavid
• Brayden Point
• Sam Reinhart

Team Canada is expected to be loaded with talent and not have anyone on that preliminary list who is considered a winger in the NHL. However, with the immense talent, they will use centers and move them around the ice instead. It would be massive for the Blackhawks’ left winger as he has never played in the Olympics before, just won a silver medal in the 2019 IIHF World Championship. This season, Bertuzzi has 26 points (16 goals, 10 assists) and has played well to improve his standing in the league. It will be interesting to see if his name is among the players selected for Team Canada this time around.

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Chicago Blackhawks @ Ottawa Senators Score Updates/Play-by Play

Ottawa Senators Injury Report

Lars Eller | C (Out)
Injury: Foot

Shane Pinto | C (Out)
Injury: Lower Body

Thomas Chabot | D (Day-To-Day)
Injury: Upper Body

Chicago Blackhawks Injury Report 

Shea Michael Weber | D (Out For Season)
Injury: Ankle

Connor Bedard | C (Out)
Injury: Shoulder

Nick Foligno | LW (Out)
Injury: Hand

Will Connor Bedard play today vs Ottawa Senators?

No, Connor Bedard will not play today. He’s expected to miss another 2-3 weeks at least and will be evaluated in the first part of January.

What was Connor Bedard’s Injury?

The center sustained an upper-body injury with one second left in the third period of a 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues last Friday while taking a face-off. Blues center Brayden Schenn went in for a stick lift and knocked into Bedard, who fell backward to the ice. He was clutching his right shoulder as he headed toward the locker room.

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Laurent Brossoit is finally healthy, but instead of solving a problem for the Chicago Blackhawks, his return has created a new one. The veteran goaltender has proven throughout his career that he can be a reliable NHL option when healthy. However, Chicago suddenly finds itself with too many capable goalies and not enough room to use them all. With younger netminders stepping up and Brossoit entering the final year of his contract, the situation is pointing strongly toward a trade.

Brossoit has yet to play a regular-season game for the Chicago Blackhawks due to a long recovery from injury. Still, his resume speaks for itself. In his last NHL season in 2023 to 2024, he posted a strong 15 5 2 record with a 2.00 goals against average and a .927 save percentage, along with three shutouts. Those numbers are elite for a goalie who has mostly worked in a backup role. Now that he is healthy again, the question is not whether he can play in the NHL, but where.

Why the Blackhawks have no room for Laurent Brossoit

The Chicago Blackhawks signed Brossoit hoping he would stabilize their crease and provide dependable goaltending. Instead, injuries delayed his debut, and during that time, Arvid Soderblom stepped in and proved he belongs at the NHL level. That unexpected development changed everything.

Chicago is now in a position where keeping Brossoit does not make much sense. The team is not in a playoff race, and there is little benefit in carrying an experienced veteran when younger goalies need reps. On top of that, Brossoit is an unrestricted free agent after the season. If the Blackhawks hold onto him too long, they risk losing him for nothing.

Despite clearing waivers once he became healthy, interest around the league has not disappeared. Goaltending is one of the thinnest positions across the NHL, and teams are always looking for reliable options, especially as injuries pile up. Elliotte Friedman noted that if Chicago is willing to take on the full 3.3 million dollar cap hit, a late round pick or future considerations could be enough to move Brossoit. Retaining salary could increase the return, but according to David Pagnotta, the Blackhawks are not eager to do that.

With nearly 24 million dollars in cap space and a rebuilding roster, the Chicago Blackhawks have flexibility. The real motivation here is asset management. Trading Brossoit now allows the team to gain something rather than watching him walk in free agency.

Oilers and Ducks emerge as logical trade fits

Two teams stand out as potential landing spots for Brossoit: the Edmonton Oilers and the Anaheim Ducks. Both teams have clear goaltending needs and enough incentive to explore a deal.

In Edmonton, the Oilers recently added Tristan Jarry, and that move has already helped stabilize their crease. However, Calvin Pickard remains a concern. His numbers have been rough, with a goals against average over four and a save percentage well below league average. Swapping Pickard for Brossoit, especially with salary retained, would give Edmonton a more dependable option for a playoff push. From Chicago’s perspective, taking back Pickard temporarily and picking up a draft pick from a contender makes sense.

Anaheim is another interesting option. Petr Mrazek has dealt with injuries, and Ville Husso has struggled when given extended time in net. While Lukas Dostal is healthy again, the Ducks could use a steady backup who can step in when needed. Frank Seravalli suggested that Anaheim has the cap space to absorb Brossoit’s contract without much trouble, and that flexibility could make a deal easier.

For the Chicago Blackhawks, the path forward is clear. Laurent Brossoit has value, the market is thin, and the timing is right. Moving him now helps both the player and the organization. It opens space for younger goalies, adds future assets, and avoids wasting a useful trade chip. One way or another, a Brossoit trade feels less like a possibility and more like an inevitability.

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Connor Bedard has been outstanding for the Chicago Blackhawks this season, establishing himself not only as an elite offensive talent but also as a thoughtful voice when it comes to understanding the bigger picture of team success. While Bedard continues to shine in the NHL, he also knows what it takes to build a winning Olympic roster. According to him, international tournaments are not about stacking the lineup with star scorers alone. They are about balance, adaptability, and players who can handle any situation thrown at them.

That perspective came through clearly when Bedard appeared on the 32 Thoughts Podcast alongside teammate Frank Nazar. Asked about what makes Nazar a strong Olympic candidate, Bedard offered insight that went beyond goals and highlight plays. His message was simple but powerful. To win gold, teams need players who can do everything.

Connor Bedard explains why Frank Nazar is built for Olympic hockey

When Connor Bedard spoke about Frank Nazar’s Olympic potential, he made it clear that skill alone is not the deciding factor. While he acknowledged Nazar’s offensive ability, Bedard focused on the areas that truly separate him from others.

“Versatility is something obviously special,” Bedard explained. “He’s a special offensive player, but he’s our first guy out there on the penalty kill, six on five, any situation, taking faceoffs, really anything.”

That trust is not given lightly. Nazar is often the first option when the Blackhawks need a big defensive stop or a key faceoff. He can be relied upon late in games, whether the team is protecting a lead or pushing for a goal. That kind of responsibility shows how complete his game has become.

In Olympic hockey, where games are often tight and margins are razor thin, those details matter more than raw point totals. Coaches value players who understand systems, execute under pressure, and contribute even when they are not scoring. Nazar fits that mold perfectly in Bedard’s eyes.

What makes Nazar stand out is his willingness to embrace any role. He does the hard work that rarely makes headlines, such as blocking shots, battling along the boards, and chasing down pucks on the penalty kill. According to Bedard, that is exactly the type of player coaches look for when building a short tournament roster with everything on the line.

Olympic teams are built on roles, not star power

One of Bedard’s most important points was about how Olympic teams are actually constructed. Too often, fans assume success comes from assembling the most talented group possible. Bedard disagrees.

“When you’re building those types of teams, it’s not an All Star team,” he said. “It’s the guys that fill roles, and he’s someone that can fill any role.”

That flexibility is what makes Nazar so valuable. He can play on the top line if scoring is needed. He can slide into a fourth line role and bring energy, speed, and defensive responsibility. He can take key penalty kill shifts and still contribute offensively when opportunities arise.

Bedard described that ability as rare. Few players are trusted in every situation, especially at the highest level of hockey. Nazar’s comfort moving between roles allows coaches to adjust lines and matchups without sacrificing structure. In a tournament like the Olympics, where there is little time to recover from mistakes, that adaptability can decide games.

As Bedard wrapped up his thoughts, he reinforced just how highly he values that quality. Nazar’s ability to contribute in all areas of the game is what makes him special, not just his offensive skill.

Now, as Bedard continues his own push as one of the league’s brightest stars, his words carry weight. If Hockey Canada wants to put together a roster capable of winning gold, listening to players like Connor Bedard might be the smartest move they make.

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The Chicago Blackhawks actually got off to a solid start this NHL season and sat a respectable 10-5-4 after winning five out of six between Nov. 5 and Nov. 18.

Since then, however, the Blackhawks have lost 10 of their last 13 games, eight of which came in regulation. They are now 13-13-6 and are on the outskirts of playoff contention in the Western Conference, and with Chicago having one of the youngest teams in the league, it may be time for the team to unload some veterans.

The Blackhawks have multiple players who could be dealt between now and the March 6 trade deadline, and long-time defenseman Connor Murphy is definitely one of the prime candidates to be jettisoned in the coming weeks and months.

Murphy has spent the last nine seasons in Chicago, and while he was a very valuable member of the squad in his early days, it may be time for the Blackhawks to move on from the 32-year-old. But which teams could potentially make a run at Murphy?

The Chicago Blackhawks have been linked to a trade with the Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings seem primed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016, so you can bet they will be trying to buy some pieces before the deadline.

There is no question that the Red Wings lack depth and could stand to add another defenseman, so it should come as no surprise that Michael DeRosa of The Hockey News has listed Detroit as a potential trade partner for Chicago if Murphy becomes available.

“The Red Wings could use more help on the right side of their defense, so it would make a lot of sense for them to pursue Murphy,” DeRosa wrote. “He would give them an upgrade for the right side of their bottom pairing.”

It would certainly sting to move a player who has been with the franchise for so long, but let’s be hones: the Blackhawks are in rebuilding mode, and it wouldn’t make much sense to hold on to Murphy, who is slated to hit free agency at the end of the season.

Chicago has made the playoffs just once in the last nine campaigns, which comes on the heels of the Blackhawks capturing three Stanley Cup championships between 2010 and 2015. Those glory days are long gone, and for Chicago to rekindle them, it will have to continue making smart moves.

The good news is that the Blackhawks seem to be trending in a positive direction.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are already shorthanded without Connor Bedard, who was placed on injured reserve on Monday.

More News: Blackhawks have worse injury news for Connor Bedard amid MRI

On Tuesday, the Blackhawks punished a young player before their contest Tuesday agains the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Chicago is falling in the wild card race amid Bedard’s (separated shoulder) injury. The third-year center is not expected to be reevaluated until at least Jan. 1.

Per Charlie Roumeliotis of WGN, Blackhawks Jeff Blashill is making Artyom Levshunov a healthy scratch on Tuesday night after he showed up late to practice on Monday.

Chicago Blackhawks HC Jeff Blashill takes a stand

More News: How the Blackhawks plan to survive without Connor Bedard

“Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill called out Artyom Levshunov during practice yesterday for being late to the rink,” Roumeliotis posted on X. “So if he’s a healthy scratch tonight, it’s likely more for disciplinary reasons than performance-based.

“Blashill confirms Artyom Levshunov’s healthy scratch tonight is because he was late to the rink yesterday.”

Chicago head coach Jeff Blashill confirms Artyom Levshunov’s healthy scratch tonight is because he was late to the rink yesterday. #Blackhawks https://t.co/rePCeSgDk5

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) December 16, 2025

Levshunov, the No. 2 pick in the 2024 draft, has 14 points this season with one goal and 13 assists. He’s the sixth in points for Chicago.

Levshunov will be a huge miss for the Blackhawks with Bedard out.

Blashill was reportedly unhappy with Levshunov and several players during Monday’s practice. He yelled at a group of players for not being alert during the workout.

Blashill yelled an expletive at Levshunov for being late to practice.

There might be a discipline problem in Chicago.

Unfortunately for the Blackhawks, their leader is out for at least a few weeks. It’ll be important that the youth on Chicago steps up to face adversity as the team is without Bedard against a grueling schedule.

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The Chicago Blackhawks were hanging around the final wild card spot in the Western Conference before Connor Bedard suffered a shoulder injury in Friday night’s 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

More News: Blackhawks HC explodes at team after placing Connor Bedard on IR

Following a 4-0 loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday (minus Bedard), the Blackhawks are 13-13-6 before playing at the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. Chicago is now three points away from the San Jose Sharks for the final wild card spot.

On Tuesday, news surfaced about what type of shoulder injury Bedard is dealing with. It’s not good for the Blackhawks hopes of making the postseason.

Chicago Blackhawks C Connor Bedard has separated shoulder

More News: Blackhawks have worse injury news for Connor Bedard amid MRI

Per Kevin Weekes of ESPN, Bedard suffered a separated shoulder.

“**Injury Update**   Per sources, I’m told the injury sustained to @NHLBlackhawks young star F Bedard, is a separated shoulder,” Weekes posted on X.

**Injury Update**
Per sources, I’m told the injury sustained to @NHLBlackhawks young star F Bedard, is
a separated shoulder. #HockeyX #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/HkJzlRp4wK

— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) December 16, 2025

On Monday, Chicago placed Bedard on injured reserve retroactive to Dec. 12. However, the team does not plan to bring back the third-year center anytime soon.

Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill said the team would not reevaluate Bedard until after Jan. 1. Fortunately, Bedard will not need surgery, but he’s going to be a big miss for a while.

Bedard is the team’s leader in points (44) with 19 goals and 25 assists. Tyler Bertuzzi is Chicago’s No. 1 point leader with 26 points coming from 16 goals and 10 assists.

Chicago will play seven more games before the New Year. All seven opponents have winning records. The Blackhawks next 10 opponents have winning records. The next time Chicago will play a team with a losing record will be the St. Louis Blues on Jan. 7.

Given the way Chicago handled its business without Bedard on Saturday night, the season is likely lost due to Bedard’s separated shoulder.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have spent the last few seasons building toward the future, and moments like this show why their patience may soon pay off. After a historic junior season and a strong start in professional hockey, forward Nick Lardis has officially taken his first step onto the NHL stage.

His call-up came under unfortunate circumstances, following Connor Bedard’s shoulder injury against St. Louis. Still, it also opened the door for one of Chicago’s most exciting young scorers to prove he belongs at the highest level.

For the Blackhawks, this is not just a short-term roster move. It is a glimpse into what their next wave of talent could look like.

From historic OHL season to AHL breakout

Nick Lardis’ rise did not happen overnight. During the 2024–25 OHL season with the Brantford Bulldogs, he put together one of the most dominant goal-scoring campaigns junior hockey has seen in decades. Lardis scored 71 goals in 65 games, becoming the first OHL player to hit the 70-goal mark since John Tavares did it back in 2006–07.

That season earned him the OHL goal-scoring title and served as a perfect ending to his junior career. More importantly, it cemented his reputation as an elite finisher with a rare scoring instinct.

Drafted 67th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the third round of the 2023 NHL Draft, Lardis transitioned smoothly into professional hockey this season with the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. Rather than easing his way in, he immediately became one of Rockford’s most productive players.

Lardis currently sits second in AHL rookie scoring, trailing only Bakersfield Condors rookie Quinn Hutson. With 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists), he is also second on the IceHogs in overall scoring behind veteran Brett Seney. That production, combined with his pace and shot, quickly made him more than just a promising prospect. He became someone the Blackhawks could realistically call upon when opportunity arose.

That opportunity came sooner than expected.

Confident NHL debut shows why Blackhawks are high on Lardis

Following Connor Bedard’s shoulder injury against St. Louis, Chicago needed offense, energy, and upside. Ahead of Saturday night’s game against the Detroit Red Wings, the Blackhawks made the call to bring Lardis up from Rockford.

In his NHL debut, Lardis was placed on a line with fellow rookies Oliver Moore and Ryan Greene, forming a young, fast trio built on skill and energy. While the stat sheet showed a minus two rating, the numbers did not fully capture Lardis’ impact.

He logged 15 minutes and 32 seconds of ice time, recorded two shots on goal, delivered five hits, blocked one shot, and attempted a team-high eight shot attempts. Those numbers tell the story of a player who was not overwhelmed by the moment. Instead, Lardis played with confidence, attacking open ice and firing the puck whenever opportunities appeared.

His performance reflected what made him special in junior hockey. He thinks like a goal scorer. He shoots without hesitation and looks comfortable creating offense even against NHL defenders. For a first game, those are encouraging signs.

For the Blackhawks, this debut reinforced why Lardis is viewed as a key piece of their rebuild. While no one expects him to replace Bedard’s production, Lardis brings a shooting mentality that Chicago desperately needs. His ability to generate attempts and play with pace fits well with the organization’s long-term vision.

As the Chicago Blackhawks navigate life without their star center in the short term, Lardis’ arrival adds excitement and hope. Whether his stay is brief or extends longer, his first NHL appearance showed that his historic scoring past may translate into a productive future at hockey’s highest level.

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The mood in the Chicago Blackhawks is not good after center Connor Bedard suffered a shoulder injury on Friday night.

More News: Blackhawks have worse injury news for Connor Bedard amid MRI

Bedard was injured in the final second of the Blackhawks’ 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues. He was ruled out for Chicago’s 4-0 loss at home to the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday.

The Blackhawks are set to start a three-game road trip in Canada beginning with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday. Chicago has a 13-13-6 record before the contest.

The Chicago Blackhawks lose Connor Bedard

More News: How the Blackhawks plan to survive without Connor Bedard

On Monday, the Blackhawks announced they were putting Bedard on injured reserve.

Via the Blackhawks:

“The Chicago Blackhawks today announced that the team has recalled defenseman Ethan Del Mastro and goaltender Laurent Brossoit (conditioning assignment) from the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League.

“Additionally, the team has placed forward Connor Bedard (upper body) on injured reserve retroactive to Dec. 12.”

Amid Bedard’s move to the IR, Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill was not in any mood for tardiness.

Per CHGO Blackhawks, Blashill called out a group of players for being late to practice.

“You don’t (expletive) show up on time!” Blashill said.

Jeff Blashill, unhappy with the start of practice, just let a group of Blackhawks have it. "You don't f—ing show up on time!"

— CHGO Blackhawks (@CHGO_Blackhawks) December 15, 2025

The first-year head coach didn’t stop there, screaming at defenceman Artyom Levshunov for missing a five-on-five rep.

“Wake the F up,” Blashill said, via Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times.

The Blackhawks have some good news on Bedard. Per Pope, Blashill confirmed Bedard will not need surgery to repair the “upper-body injury.” However, Chicago is not expected to re-evaluate Bedard until after Jan. 1.

But by that time, the Blackhawks could fall out of the postseason chase. That is, if they don’t wake the (expletive) up.

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The true value of Connor Bedard to the Chicago Blackhawks becomes clearest when he is not in the lineup. His impact this season goes far beyond highlight goals or flashy assists. Bedard has scored 19 goals and added 25 assists, including 18 primary assists. That means he has directly contributed to 37 of the Blackhawks’ 91 goals. Only Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini have been more involved in their teams’ scoring through goals and primary assists.

So yes, the Blackhawks are going to feel his absence. Deeply.

Injuries are part of the NHL, and no team escapes them. Chicago knows it cannot replace Bedard with one player. Instead, the Blackhawks will need a collective response, with several players stepping into larger roles and taking on more responsibility. As forward Ryan Donato put it, this is now a next man up situation.

Frank Nazar and Tyler Bertuzzi must drive the offense

If there is one player who will feel Bedard’s absence the most, it is Frank Nazar. Simply put, Nazar will inherit much of what Bedard was getting. More ice time. More offensive responsibility. More pressure.

Bedard was averaging just over 21 minutes per game. Nazar has been close to that number already, but now he will be leaned on in every major situation. Early in the season, Nazar looked like Chicago’s most dangerous offensive player. He scored five goals in his first 10 games and played with confidence and swagger. While his scoring cooled off as the season progressed, the chances never fully disappeared.

Coach Jeff Blashill continues to stress process over results with Nazar. The shots are there. The opportunities are there. Now the Blackhawks need the finish. Chicago envisions Nazar as a top six center capable of scoring 30 goals a season. This stretch without Bedard is a major test of that belief.

Alongside Nazar, Tyler Bertuzzi becomes even more important. Bertuzzi has been Chicago’s most consistent scorer outside of Bedard, with 16 goals in 29 games. His strength is around the net, where most of his goals come from within 10 feet. That means his success depends on puck movement, rebounds and sustained offensive zone time.

Bertuzzi has produced with multiple linemates this season, including Nazar and Teuvo Teräväinen earlier on. With Bedard out, Blashill may shuffle lines again to find the right mix. If Bertuzzi keeps scoring at his current pace, it will ease the pressure on the rest of the lineup.

Young talent and depth players get their opportunity

Another player who could benefit from increased opportunity is Nick Lardis. It is a lot to ask of a young player entering the NHL, but Lardis brings rare offensive tools. His shot, speed and instincts helped him score 71 goals in the OHL last season, and he has already been productive at the AHL level.

Even in his NHL debut, Lardis showed he belongs. He hit the crossbar, created chances and led the team in shot attempts. Playing alongside Oliver Moore and Ryan Greene gives that line speed, creativity and energy. Blashill praised Lardis’ jump and offensive awareness, and those traits will be valuable while Chicago searches for goals.

Ryan Donato is another name to watch. His role has shrunk this season, but his effort never has. Donato scored 31 goals last year and is capable of streaky offense. With Bedard out, Blashill may look to give Donato more offensive minutes or power play opportunities to spark production.

Finally, Ilya Mikheyev quietly remains one of Chicago’s most dangerous chance creators. He has generated plenty of high danger opportunities but has struggled to finish. If Mikheyev can rediscover his scoring touch, even occasionally, it could swing games in Chicago’s favor.

No one player will replace Connor Bedard. That is unrealistic. But if the Chicago Blackhawks get strong contributions from Nazar, Bertuzzi and their supporting cast, they can stay competitive and continue building the foundation of their rebuild while their star recovers.

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Saturday night’s game against the Detroit Red Wings wasn’t pretty for the Chicago Blackhawks without Connor Bedard.

Bedard might be out for a significant amount of time.

More News: Blackhawks get bad update on Connor Bedard’s injury

The third-year center was ruled out after suffering a shoulder injury at the end of Friday night’s loss to the St. Louis Blues. Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill called the injury a “freak accident.”

Without their leader in points (44), the Blackhawks suffered a 4-0 loss to the Red Wings in front of 20,751 fans at the United Center.

Before the game, Blashill said Bedard was still being evaluated. He expected to have more information on Monday. However, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman provided a dour outlook for Chicago.

While the Blackhawks are awaiting the results of the MRI Bedard had on Saturday, he is not expected to return to start the three-game road trip in Canada next week. Chicago will travel to play the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday before ending the week with the Montreal Canadiens (Thursday, and Ottawa Senators (Saturday).

Chicago Blackhawks C Connor Bedard out for a while

More News: Bears’ Caleb Williams sets goal before Browns game

Per Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times, Blashill confirmed Bedard is not expected to play for the entire three-game road trip.

“Blashill confirmed he doesn’t anticipate Connor Bedard playing on this 3-game road trip,” Pope posted on X.

Blashill confirmed he doesn't anticipate Connor Bedard playing on this 3-game road trip.

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) December 14, 2025

The Blackhawks were hanging on a thread for the postseason hunt before Bedard’s injury. They didn’t look like a contender on Saturday night without him after being shut out by Detroit.

All three of Chicago’s next opponents will have better than .500 records.

Nick Lardis, who was called up to play for Bedard was a minus-2 on the ice against the Red Wings.

For More Chicago Sports:

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On Friday, the Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard earned two assists, but it wasn’t enough to earn a win.

(Saturday night update): Bedard’s update is even worse amid MRI results

The Blackhawks fell 3-2 to the St. Louis Blues in front of 18,096 fans at the Enterprise Center.

The defeat wasn’t the only bad news.

A scary moment for the Chicago Blackhawks

More News: Bears’ Ben Johnson sends offense warning after loss to Packers

Bedard appeared shaken up at the end of the contest. He fell to the ice as time expired in the third period and favored his right shoulder as he got up. He immediately left for the locker room.

pic.twitter.com/N65FrOnOtU

— BlackhawksFocus (@FocusBlackhawks) December 13, 2025

Per Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times, Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill called the injury a “freak accident.”

“I think it’s a freak accident, to be honest with you,” Blashill said.

Bad news on Connor Bedard

Blashill had more bad news to offer on Bedard, confirming the star center would not play on Saturday at home against the Detroit Red Wings. It’s unclear if Bedard will make the three-game road trip in Canada next week to play the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Ottawa Senators.

Blashill hopes to provide an update by Monday.

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The Chicago Blackhawks enter Friday’s matchup against the St. Louis Blues with renewed confidence, and much of that momentum comes from the play of Connor Bedard, who continues to drive Chicago’s offense through the month of December.

After a dominant 3-0 win over the New York Rangers, the Blackhawks are hoping to carry that same energy into St. Louis as they meet their Central Division rivals for the second time this season. Bedard scored and assisted in Wednesday’s victory while Spencer Knight recorded a shutout, giving Chicago the exact response they needed following two tough road losses. As the Blackhawks try to build on their progress, all eyes will once again be on Bedard, whose scoring pace has Chicago fans buzzing.

Connor Bedard’s momentum fuels Blackhawks’ rising confidence

Connor Bedard enters this matchup in outstanding form. His goal against the Rangers was his 19th of the season, tying him for third in the NHL in goals. Beyond the goals, Bedard has consistently pushed the pace, created scoring chances, and elevated the play of those around him. His assist on Tyler Bertuzzi’s goal on Wednesday capped another multi-point performance, and his surge has reshaped the Blackhawks’ offensive rhythm.

Chicago’s improved defensive structure also played a key role in their bounce-back win. The Blackhawks limited New York’s chances, kept the middle of the ice protected, and generated clean entries on the rush, something they struggled with earlier in the season. Spencer Knight supported that defensive effort with a 21-save shutout, giving the team stability when they needed it most.

The Blackhawks now head into Enterprise Center knowing they have already beaten the Blues once this season. In their last meeting on Oct. 15, Chicago rolled to an 8-3 victory, showcasing balanced scoring and strong puck movement. Ilya Mikheyev, Alex Vlasic, and others contributed to multi-point games as Chicago overwhelmed St. Louis with speed and offensive depth.

Another factor working in the Blackhawks’ favor is their recent road special teams performance. Chicago currently leads the NHL in road power-play percentage, an impressive turnaround that could prove valuable against a Blues team that has struggled with penalty killing consistency.

With points in five of their last eight road games, Chicago appears more cohesive and confident, and Bedard is the centerpiece of that momentum. His shooting, awareness, and ability to create plays have turned the Blackhawks into a legitimate threat in the offensive zone, even against stronger defensive teams.

Blues searching for stability amid defensive struggles

While the Blackhawks come in with confidence, the Blues enter this matchup searching for stability after a brutal 7-2 loss to the Nashville Predators. In that game, St. Louis allowed six goals in a single period, exposing major issues with defensive-zone coverage and puck management.

The Blues have shown flashes of strong play, such as their recent 2-1 win over Ottawa, but inconsistency has defined their season so far. Jake Neighbours and goalie Joel Hofer have been bright spots, yet the team continues to battle inconsistency in both structure and effort. Compounding matters is the uncertainty surrounding Jordan Kyrou’s leg injury, which leaves a gap in the Blues’ top-six forward group.

Tactically, Friday’s matchup presents concerns for St. Louis. Chicago is expected to attack the middle of the ice early, work the cycle high, and put traffic in front of the net. This could create trouble for Hofer, who may be forced into difficult lateral saves if the Blackhawks maintain speed through the neutral zone.

St. Louis will try to counter with physical play, aggressive forechecking, and quicker puck retrievals, areas where Chicago historically struggles under pressure. But the Blues will need to be much sharper defensively to slow Bedard and the Hawks’ transition game, which has generated high-quality scoring chances in recent outings.

One thing is certain: with Connor Bedard pushing the pace and Chicago looking to stack wins, this Central Division showdown is shaping up to be a hard-fought battle from start to finish.

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The Chicago Blackhawks returned to the United Center on Wednesday night searching for answers after two blowout losses on their West Coast trip. With confidence shaken and fatigue evident, they needed a strong performance to reset their momentum.

They got exactly that. In what may have been their most complete game of the season, Chicago shut out the New York Rangers 3-0, outworking and outskating one of the NHL’s top road teams. Behind disciplined defense, timely scoring, and a stellar outing from Spencer Knight, the Blackhawks reminded everyone what they are capable of when they play with structure and urgency.

Strong defense and timely scoring power the Chicago Blackhawks past New York

From the opening puck drop, the Blackhawks looked sharper, faster, and far more connected than they had in their previous two outings. The Rangers entered the matchup with 12 road wins, the most in the NHL, but Chicago did not allow them to dictate the pace at any point.

The breakthrough came early in the second period when defenseman Louis Crevier took advantage of a shorthanded opportunity. After jumping into open ice, Crevier converted with a clean finish for his third goal of the season. It was an unexpected but energizing moment for the 6-foot-8 defenseman.

“That was pretty fun,” Crevier said. “I don’t get too many looks like this.”

Chicago kept pressing, and their momentum paid off again when Connor Bedard struck later in the period. Bedard collected a smart pass in front from André Burakovsky and buried his 19th goal of the season. The rookie sensation added an assist later, finishing the night with two points and continuing his strong stretch of play at home.

The Blackhawks were the better team at even strength, on special teams, and in puck management. New York had brief pushes, but Chicago consistently shut down passing lanes and moved the puck efficiently out of their own zone.

A major storyline entering the game was Chicago’s decision to return to a traditional six-defensemen lineup after sending Sam Rinzel to the Rockford IceHogs. The adjustment proved beneficial. Veterans like Matthew Grzelcyk stepped up, with Grzelcyk recording the primary assist on Crevier’s goal and helping stabilize the defensive pairings.

“As a D corps, it was probably one of our better games,” Grzelcyk said. “We used our feet and stayed tight.”

Spencer Knight earns shutout as the Chicago Blackhawks regain confidence

In net, Spencer Knight was calm, composed, and completely reliable. The 23-year-old stopped all 21 shots he faced, earning his second shutout of the season and the seventh of his career. After giving up six goals to the Los Angeles Kings just days earlier, Knight didn’t frame this performance as a rebound. Instead, he emphasized consistency.

“It’s not really a bounce back to me, it’s just another day,” Knight said. “You’re going to have games where that happens. You take what you can and move on.”

Knight’s steady presence gave Chicago the confidence to maintain pressure throughout the game. Even when the Rangers threatened, Knight made smart reads and controlled rebounds, preventing extended offensive zone time for New York.

The Rangers attempted to respond in the third period, but Chicago shut them down defensively and added a late goal from Tyler Bertuzzi, assisted by Bedard.

Chicago now prepares for another challenging back-to-back set against the St. Louis Blues and Detroit Red Wings. Their previous back-to-back resulted in blowouts, but Knight believes the team is better prepared this time.

“As a young team, we’re going to work hard and stick to the plan,” Knight said. “We’ll take all the experience we can and keep building.”

The win also happened to fall on head coach Jeff Blashill’s 52nd birthday, though he kept the focus on the road ahead instead of celebrations.

“Our focus now is St. Louis,” Blashill said. “We have a lot coming, and we have to be able to handle it.”

The Chicago Blackhawks needed a response, and their 3-0 victory proved they can deliver one when it matters.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are once again becoming a team to watch as the trade deadline approaches. ESPN insider Greg Wyshynski released his latest trade board, and three Blackhawks players, Jason Dickinson, Connor Murphy, and Laurent Brossoit, all made the list.

With Chicago still deep in its rebuild and carrying several veterans on expiring contracts, the possibility that it could become a seller is growing stronger. Each of the three players mentioned offers something different to potential contenders, making them logical names to monitor in the weeks ahead.

Jason Dickinson and Connor Murphy stand out as veteran trade targets

It is no surprise to see Jason Dickinson on the trade board. The 30-year-old center is a pending unrestricted free agent and fits the profile of the type of depth forward playoff teams chase every year. Teams looking to add size, reliability, and versatility in the bottom six often look at players like Dickinson.

So far this season, Dickinson has produced two goals and three assists for five points in 17 games. While his numbers may not jump off the page, his value goes far beyond scoring. He is a dependable penalty killer, a strong forechecker, and wins over 52 percent of his faceoffs. These are the kinds of traits coaches love during tight playoff games.

His ability to play a checking role also gives him appeal to contenders looking to strengthen their defensive game and improve faceoff efficiency down the middle. Because he is a pending free agent, acquiring teams would not need to commit long-term, making him even more attractive as a rental.

On defense, Connor Murphy is another name expected to draw interest. Like Dickinson, Murphy is also a pending UFA. He is precisely the type of defenseman teams often look for as the games get tougher late in the season: significant, physical, and a right-handed shot.

Right-shot defensemen with experience and shutdown ability are always in short supply. Murphy’s style of play makes him a fit on most playoff teams. His ability to defend the crease, block shots, and battle along the boards makes him a safe and predictable option for coaches.

If the Blackhawks decide to move Murphy, they would be dealing a valuable asset. His presence in the locker room and consistency on the ice have been essential for a young Chicago roster. Still, if the return is significant, the organization may decide it is the right time to move on.

Laurent Brossoit could be on the move as the goalie market takes shape

While Dickinson and Murphy are natural trade candidates given their roles and contract statuses, Laurent Brossoit has been expected to move for some time. Chicago has been working to find the 32-year-old goaltender a new home, and his appearance on Wyshynski’s trade board reflects that ongoing effort.

Brossoit is currently on a conditioning assignment with the Rockford IceHogs, where he is getting his first game action since the 2023-24 season. He has dealt with several injuries over the last year, but when healthy, he has proven to be a reliable NHL backup capable of handling extended stretches of play.

Several teams around the league could be in the market for a goaltender as the season progresses. Injuries, inconsistent play, or simply the desire for depth often drive goalie trades near the deadline. If Brossoit performs well during his conditioning stint, Chicago may finally find the right match.

The Blackhawks will continue to evaluate their roster as the season moves forward. If they fall further from the playoff picture, the likelihood increases that veterans like Dickinson, Murphy, and Brossoit will be traded for futures. For now, fans should keep an eye on how these names develop in the trade rumor mill.

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The Chicago Blackhawks returned home needing a reset after a difficult West Coast road trip, and they delivered exactly that in a strong 3-0 victory over the New York Rangers on Wednesday night.

Behind a steady performance from Spencer Knight and another standout showing from Connor Bedard, Chicago looked sharper, faster, and more confident on home ice. After being outscored 13-1 in their previous two games, the Blackhawks used energy from the United Center crowd to regain momentum and show they can respond when things get tough.

Connor Bedard shines again as Chicago Blackhawks take control early

Coming off a stretch in which Chicago struggled to generate offense, the team wasted no time setting the tone at home. Louis Crevier opened the scoring with a short-handed goal, giving the Blackhawks early confidence. It was the type of hard-working play Chicago has been missing, and it immediately energized the bench.

From there, Connor Bedard took over. The 20-year-old star scored his 19th goal of the season, finishing a centering pass from Andre Burakovsky to extend the lead to 2-0 in the second period. Bedard later added an assist on Tyler Bertuzzi’s third-period goal, giving him a two-point night and pushing his season total to 42 points.

Bedard now has 17 points in his last 11 home games, showcasing just how comfortable he has become playing in front of Chicago fans. His ability to elevate the team after a tough road trip reflects the leadership qualities the organization believes will define its future.

The Rangers entered the game having lost two straight in overtime, but remained one of the league’s better defensive teams. Still, the Blackhawks outworked them in key moments and capitalized on their chances. New York goalie Igor Shesterkin made 22 saves, but his team was unable to generate consistent pressure in the offensive zone.

Chicago’s strong first period also continued a trend. The Blackhawks have now scored first in 12 of their 15 home games, the most in the NHL, and have allowed only four first-period goals at home, the fewest in the league.

Spencer Knight earns second shutout as Chicago Blackhawks regain confidence

While Bedard once again drove the offense, Spencer Knight delivered a calm, controlled performance in net. The 23-year-old stopped 21 shots for his second shutout of the season and the seventh of his career.

Knight’s ability to stay poised, even when facing skilled forwards like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, gave the Blackhawks the confidence they needed to play more aggressively. His rebound control, positioning, and communication with the defense stood out throughout the night.

For Knight, this performance also marked an important step forward in consistency. He has never recorded more than two shutouts in a single season, and reaching that number before the halfway point reflects how valuable he has become to Chicago’s defensive structure.

The Blackhawks also showed improvement in areas that cost them during the road trip. Their forecheck was stronger, their defensive zone coverage much tighter, and their transitions cleaner. Even in moments when the Rangers pushed back, Chicago stayed composed.

New York saw one streak end as well. Mika Zibanejad’s seven-game point streak came to a stop, thanks in large part to Chicago’s disciplined defensive play.

The win gives the Blackhawks a much-needed boost as they head back on the road to face the St. Louis Blues on Friday night. Chicago proved they can rebound from adversity, and with Bedard leading the offense and Knight finding his rhythm, the team can build on this momentum moving forward. After a rough stretch, the Chicago Blackhawks reminded everyone what they look like at their best: energetic, structured, and confident.

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The relationship between Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar has quickly grown into one of the most exciting storylines surrounding the Chicago Blackhawks’ rebuild. On the ice, they are two of the most skilled young players the franchise has had since the days of Toews and Kane.

Off the ice, they’re roommates, close friends, and constant companions, forming a connection that mirrors the chemistry they build during games. From dressing up together on Halloween to sharing dinners on every road trip, Bedard and Nazar have created a partnership that blends talent, personality, and leadership. And as the Blackhawks continue shaping their next era, the duo’s rise feels like the start of something special.

Connor Bedard and Nazar are growing together as players and as leaders

Bedard and Nazar may play on different lines at even strength, but they come together on Chicago’s top power play unit, often driving momentum for the Blackhawks. Their games complement each other: Bedard’s elite vision and shooting blend seamlessly with Nazar’s speed, playmaking ability, and relentless energy.

Even more importantly, their off-ice bond strengthens their connection on the ice.
“We spend so much time together… it’s like a family,” Bedard said. From long road trips to casual hangs at home, the two young stars enjoy every moment, and their teammates notice.

Defenseman Alex Vlasic put it best:
“They’re so skilled, fast, and exciting. They’re going to be future studs, All-Stars. It’s just really fun to watch them succeed.”

Bedard’s production already speaks for itself:

• 61 points as a rookie (Calder Trophy winner)
• 67 points in 2024-25
• 40 points (18G, 22A) in just 29 games this season, ranking fifth in the entire NHL

Nazar, meanwhile, signed a seven-year extension in August and has rapidly become a reliable top-six forward. With 20 points in 27 games and nine assists in his last 12 matchups, he continues to trend upward.

Coach Jeff Blashill’s system, often using 11 forwards and seven defensemen, gives both Bedard (21:11 ATOI) and Nazar (19:01 ATOI) significant ice time. Bedard leads the team in forward minutes, while Nazar ranks third. Their responsibility isn’t just earned, it’s necessary.

Ryan Donato emphasized their impact:
“If they want to win, they have to take some steps and they absolutely have. The team leans on them.”

Even without wearing permanent letters, Bedard and Nazar are already leading through their play. Jason Dickinson explained that leadership from the duo comes naturally:
“They’ve taken on their shoulders to say, ‘I’m going to win games for us night after night.’”

Personality, chemistry, and a bright Chicago future

Part of what makes their partnership so compelling is how opposite their personalities are. Nazar is outgoing, energetic, and playful, the spark plug of the locker room.
“He wakes up and the sky is blue,” Blashill joked, praising Nazar’s positivity.

Bedard, meanwhile, is more reserved. The pressure of being the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft brought an intense spotlight, but now in his third season, he’s more relaxed and willing to let his personality shine. Nazar sees that change firsthand:
“He’s a funny guy. You just have to bring it out of him.”

Together, they balance each other, Nazar helping Bedard loosen up, Bedard helping Nazar stay focused and competitive. And behind the scenes, they’re building a culture that younger players like Oliver Moore, Colton Dach, Ryan Greene, and Artyom Levshunov are already feeding off.

Nazar summed it up perfectly:
“This year, it just feels great coming to the rink… it’s guys you’re going to laugh with, to battle with.”

The future of the Chicago Blackhawks isn’t just about talent, it’s about chemistry, leadership, and a new core growing together. And at the center of that evolution stand two close friends: Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, the emerging faces of the franchise.

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The Connor Bedard era in Chicago has already delivered big moments, but tonight’s matchup against the New York Rangers carries a different kind of weight.

The Chicago Blackhawks enter this Original Six battle on a two-game skid, having been outscored 13–1 in their last two outings. With pressure mounting and criticism growing, Bedard made it clear during Tuesday’s media session that he isn’t letting the outside noise drag the team down. Instead, the 20-year-old star delivered a reminder to reporters, and to fans, that momentum can change quickly in the NHL.

Connor Bedard pushes back at the narrative as the Blackhawks try to reset

Chicago’s young roster has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but the last two games revealed the challenges of navigating such a demanding league with one of its youngest teams. Still, while many focused on the blowout losses, Connor Bedard chose not to dwell on the negativity.

When asked about the team’s recent struggles, Bedard gave a response that instantly went viral for its honesty:
“The beauty of it is: if we win, you guys will forget about it all and we’ll be the best team ever again,” Bedard said.
“So we’re just going to have a good game and get back on track.”

It was a mature moment from a player still early in his NHL career, someone who understands both the pressure of being a No. 1 pick and the noise that surrounds a rebuilding franchise. Bedard knows the Blackhawks can’t change the past. They can only focus on the next shift, the next game, and the next response.

And that response will need to be strong. The Blackhawks haven’t just lost two straight, they’ve been dominated. Being outscored 13–1 in consecutive games highlights the inconsistencies of a roster still learning how to compete nightly. But Bedard’s leadership, even at 20 years old, shows why he’s viewed as the future face of the franchise.

The challenge ahead is steep, but Bedard’s message sets the tone: put the last two games behind them and fight for a reset against one of the league’s toughest road teams.

Both teams seek a breakthrough, but the Rangers hold road advantage

While Chicago enters the matchup with plenty to fix, the New York Rangers aren’t arriving in perfect form either. Mike Sullivan’s team also rides a two-game losing streak, but unlike Chicago’s blowouts, New York’s losses came in overtime at Madison Square Garden. They’ve been competitive, but unable to close games.

That’s where the similarities end.

New York has been one of the NHL’s best road teams, sporting an impressive 12-4-1 record away from Manhattan. Their structure, depth, and veteran leadership have made them far more dangerous on the road than at home, where they surprisingly own the league’s worst home record at 3-8-3.

The Blackhawks, meanwhile, have shown promise at the United Center but remain inconsistent. Their youth often shines offensively, but defensive lapses and untimely mistakes have cost them in key moments. Facing a disciplined Rangers squad will test Chicago’s ability to structure their game, stay patient, and avoid the breakdowns that doomed them in Los Angeles and Anaheim.

Still, Chicago has one major weapon: Bedard. The young superstar continues to push the pace, create scoring chances, and carry the Hawks’ offense despite the team’s struggles. His confidence, even after difficult losses, helps fuel the rest of the lineup.

With both clubs trying to end losing streaks, tonight’s game could turn into an emotional, high-energy battle. For the Rangers, it’s another chance to extend their dominance on the road. For the Blackhawks, it’s an opportunity to prove they can respond, bounce back, and take a step forward in their development.

And for Connor Bedard, it might be the perfect moment to back up his bold words with another statement performance on home ice.

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The Chicago Blackhawks return to the United Center on Wednesday night for a challenging matchup against the New York Rangers. After a tough stretch that has seen Chicago go 2-6-2 in their last 10 games, this home contest presents an opportunity to reset and rediscover consistency.

The Rangers, meanwhile, come in riding a three-game road winning streak and boasting one of the best away records in the league. With both teams healthy and meeting for the first time this season, the stage is set for a competitive and fast-paced matchup in Chicago.

Chicago Blackhawks aim to bounce back against strong Rangers road team

The Blackhawks have been inconsistent of late, earning a 12-11-6 record and sitting near the middle of the Central Division standings. At home, they are 6-5-3 and looking to build more stability on United Center ice. One area that continues to stand out, for better or worse, is discipline. Chicago ranks fourth in the NHL with 126 total penalties, averaging 4.3 per game. Staying out of the penalty box will be key against a Rangers team that thrives when given extra opportunities.

Despite recent struggles, the Blackhawks have gotten strong play from their young core. Frank Nazar continues to develop into a dynamic playmaker with five goals and 15 assists this season. His speed and creativity have helped drive Chicago’s offense, especially during five-on-five play.

Tyler Bertuzzi has also been a steady contributor, recording six goals and four assists in his last 10 games. His physical presence and ability to generate chances in tight make him a vital piece of the Blackhawks’ top six.

The challenge, however, will be containing a New York team that has excelled on the road with a 12-4-1 away record. The Rangers are particularly dangerous when they hit the three-goal mark, owning a 13-1-1 record in those situations. Chicago’s defense and goaltending will need to be sharp early to prevent the Rangers from gaining momentum.

On the injury front, both teams enter the game fully healthy, allowing the Blackhawks to ice their strongest possible lineup for one of their toughest opponents in December.

Rangers bring firepower as Chicago Blackhawks look to stabilize recent form

The New York Rangers arrive in Chicago playing confident, structured hockey. With a 15-12-4 record, they remain competitive in a tight Metropolitan Division race and continue to lean heavily on their star talent.

Artemi Panarin, the former Blackhawk, is once again leading the way with 10 goals and 22 assists. His combination of vision, playmaking, and shooting threat makes him one of the most dangerous forwards Chicago will face this month.

Complementing Panarin is Vladislav Gavrikov, who has been particularly productive over the last 10 games, tallying four goals and three assists. His two-way presence on the blue line gives the Rangers another layer of depth that Chicago must account for.

Statistically, New York has been the better team recently. Over their last 10 games, the Rangers are 5-3-2, averaging three goals per contest while giving up just 2.6. Their defensive structure has tightened, and their goaltending has been steady — a formula that has fueled their success away from home.

The Blackhawks, in contrast, have been outscored significantly in their recent 2-6-2 stretch, averaging only 2.2 goals per game while allowing 4.1 goals against. If Chicago wants to turn things around, they’ll need cleaner exits, sharper defensive zone coverage, and more sustained pressure in the offensive zone.

Still, the matchup brings opportunity. Playing in front of a home crowd, the Blackhawks have a chance to regroup, tighten their game, and show they can compete with one of the league’s top road teams. A strong effort against the Rangers could provide the spark they’ve been looking for.

As both teams enter the game with fully healthy rosters and plenty to play for, Wednesday night’s meeting promises high intensity, fast skating, and a clear test of where the Chicago Blackhawks stand heading into the heart of the season.

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With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, Connor Bedard has one month left to make his case to represent Team Canada, a roster arguably harder to crack than any in international hockey. While Bedard’s electric play this season has vaulted him into the national conversation, competition for forward spots is fierce.

Even so, his recent surge in production has turned heads across the hockey world and earned him strong backing from his teammates. Whether he ultimately makes the cut remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Bedard is fighting his way into the discussion, not riding his name or draft status.

Connor Bedard stays humble as his Olympic chances rise

Connor Bedard understands the magnitude of the opportunity in front of him, but he also knows Team Canada’s talent pool is deeper than ever. Speaking before the Blackhawks’ tough 7–1 loss to Anaheim, he kept things grounded:
“Obviously I want to be there… but there are so many great players in Canada, they could make two teams.”

Despite the humility, Bedard’s numbers tell their own story. Over his last 21 games, he has recorded an eye-popping 16 goals and 17 assists, a run that’s nearly impossible for Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong to ignore. His offensive creativity, finishing ability, and hockey IQ make him a dynamic option, especially for a team seeking both skill and youthful energy.

But Bedard isn’t the only young star making noise. Macklin Celebrini has been sensational in San Jose. Tom Wilson brings a physical edge many believe Canada needs. Nick Suzuki offers elite two-way play. With established names already competing for spots, no one is guaranteed a place, not even a generational scorer like Bedard.

Still, Bedard’s teammates believe he belongs on the Olympic stage.
Jason Dickinson praised him, saying:
“Connor has put himself in the conversation… He has definitely raised his game. He has brought a level of intensity that is turning heads.”

Right now, Bedard’s chances sit around 50/50 as the New Year’s Eve roster deadline approaches. But if he continues producing at his current pace, he could force Canada’s hand.

Developing all-around: faceoffs, leadership, and scoring race

While Bedard is best known for his scoring, he’s quietly making major strides in another critical area, the faceoff circle. After winning under 40% of his draws early in his career, Bedard has pushed his percentage up to 48.1% this season. That growth is no accident.

“You see the pattern with young guys,” Bedard explained. “You keep practicing, keep getting used to the players you’re going against… I’m figuring out what works for me.”

Bedard admits he will still have off-nights but believes consistency is coming. The presence of Ryan Greene, another natural center, has helped relieve pressure. Greene’s ability to take clean draws or step in when Bedard gets tossed gives the duo flexibility, allowing Bedard to focus more on positioning and anticipation.

Meanwhile, Bedard’s offensive output continues to draw attention across the league, and even when he tries to avoid the NHL leaderboard, it finds him anyway.
“You just see it if you have a phone or Instagram,” he joked.

As of now, Bedard sits fourth in NHL scoring with 40 points, behind only Nathan MacKinnon (49), Macklin Celebrini (43), and Connor McDavid (42).

For a 20-year-old in his third NHL season, that’s remarkable. For a player pushing for an Olympic roster spot? It’s the strongest argument possible.

Connor Bedard may not know yet whether he’ll wear the Maple Leaf in Milan, but he has unquestionably earned consideration. His growth at both ends of the ice, maturity in interviews, improvement in the faceoff circle, and elite scoring numbers all point toward a player ready for the international spotlight. The decision now rests with Team Canada, but Bedard is doing everything in his power to make that decision difficult to ignore.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are hitting a rough patch again, winning only two of their last ten games and suffering lopsided losses to both the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks. While the season began with promise, their recent struggles raise an uncomfortable but realistic question: What if the Blackhawks fall out of the playoff race by the trade deadline?

If that happens, Chicago will almost certainly shift into seller mode once again, a familiar role during the rebuild. And that means several players could be on the move, especially pending free agents or veterans who could help playoff contenders.

Here’s a closer look at seven Blackhawks who may become trade candidates if the season continues trending downward.

Key veterans who could draw strong trade interest

Connor Murphy, D
Murphy is almost guaranteed to draw attention from playoff-bound teams. He’s a big, experienced, right-shot defenseman — a premium position at the trade deadline. Teams looking to improve their penalty kill, stabilize their top four, or add leadership on the back end will absolutely inquire. His style fits postseason hockey, and that alone could get Chicago a solid return.

Ilya Mikheyev, RW
Mikheyev, a pending UFA, should become a popular target if Chicago makes him available. He’s a reliable two-way winger who can kill penalties, forecheck effectively, and chip in offensively. Coming off a 20-goal season, he’s precisely the kind of depth scorer and defensive presence contenders love to add in March.

Nick Foligno, LW
This one depends entirely on Foligno’s wishes. As the team’s captain and emotional leader, the Blackhawks would only move him if he asked for a shot at the Stanley Cup. His leadership and experience would make him highly valuable in any contender’s locker room. But if Foligno prefers to stay in Chicago, the Blackhawks will honor that.

Jason Dickinson, C
A strong defensive center and penalty killer, Dickinson is another pending free agent who would interest playoff teams. He is responsible, wins faceoffs, plays tough minutes, and can stabilize a third or fourth line. His style fits postseason hockey perfectly, which could help Chicago secure a mid-round pick or prospect.

Depth options that might appeal to contenders

Matt Grzelcyk, D
Grzelcyk brings playoff experience from his time in Boston and carries a team-friendly contract. He showed last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins that he can contribute offensively, posting career highs with 39 assists and 40 points. His ability to move the puck, run a power play, and play sheltered defensive minutes makes him attractive for depth-hungry contenders.

Sam Lafferty, RW/C
Lafferty is the type of gritty, fast, versatile forward that teams always try to grab at the deadline. He can play center or wing, kill penalties, and bring an edge that fits playoff-style hockey. His energy and ability to create momentum on the forecheck could make him a sneaky valuable add for a top contender.

Laurent Brossoit, G
Regardless of how the season plays out, Brossoit is one of the most likely Blackhawks to be traded. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman recently reported that Chicago has already given teams permission to speak with him. With many playoff teams always on the lookout for goaltending insurance, Brossoit, a proven, reliable veteran, could offer decent value.

The next several weeks will determine how the Chicago Blackhawks approach the trade deadline. If they stay competitive, the roster may remain intact. But if they continue sliding out of playoff contention, the front office will likely look to extract value from veterans and expiring contracts to support the long-term rebuild. Either way, all eyes will be on these seven players as the season progresses — because if Chicago becomes sellers again, movement is almost guaranteed.

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The Chicago Blackhawks entered the season with high hopes for young defenseman Sam Rinzel, especially after his impressive NHL debut last spring and steady early-season play. But over the past few weeks, things haven’t gone as smoothly for the 21-year-old blueliner. His ice time has dropped sharply, he was benched in a recent third period, and the team’s decision to use a seven-defenseman rotation has squeezed his opportunities even further.

Now, with Rinzel struggling to find rhythm or confidence, it might be time for the Blackhawks to consider a temporary reset, one that leads him to the Rockford IceHogs, where he can rediscover the big minutes and responsibility that helped him thrive early in his career. This wouldn’t be a setback. Instead, it could be exactly what he needs to take the next step in his development.

Ice time drops and rotational roles disrupt Rinzel’s momentum

Rinzel’s development appeared on track through the early part of the 2024–25 season. He was averaging over 20 minutes a night, moving the puck well, and showing flashes of the poised, mobile defenseman the Blackhawks envisioned when they drafted him.

But everything shifted when the Blackhawks switched to a seven-defensemen rotation, a move that created inconsistency for younger players like Rinzel. Suddenly, instead of steady top-four minutes, he found himself bouncing between shifts and even sitting for long stretches.

Reporter Scott Powers noted that in Chicago’s most recent game, Rinzel played just one shift in the third period, the clearest sign yet that his role is slipping.
Powers wrote:
“Sam Rinzel played just one shift in the third period… It sounds like a coach’s decision. He finished with 9:30 of ice time for the game.”

That 9:30 mark is a far cry from the heavy workload he started the season with. It’s also a massive drop-off from the standout game he played back in October against the Montreal Canadiens, a performance that had many fans believing he was ready for a full-time NHL role.

Rinzel’s recent dip doesn’t reflect a lack of potential. Instead, it looks more like the natural consequences of lineup structure, coaching decisions, and the realities of managing a young defense core. Still, the Blackhawks want their top prospects to play meaningful minutes, not sit on the bench.

This is where Rockford could become the perfect solution.

AHL time could rebuild confidence and accelerate development

A temporary move to Rockford wouldn’t be a punishment; it would be an opportunity. Rinzel is at his best when he’s playing a lot, touching the puck often, and being trusted in key situations. The AHL could offer him exactly that environment.

In Rockford, Rinzel could:
• Play top-pairing minutes
• Quarterback the power play
• Log heavy, consistent shifts
• Develop without the pressure of an NHL lineup squeeze

His college career and early NHL games showed what he can do when he’s allowed to take on responsibility. Rinzel’s smooth skating, long reach, and ability to move the puck make him an ideal candidate to dominate at the AHL level. At 6’4″ and nearly 195 pounds, he already has the physical tools, now he just needs the confidence and repetitions.

Last spring, Rinzel arrived in Chicago straight from college hockey and didn’t look out of place. He carried himself with poise and seemed energized by his opportunity. That confidence has faded recently, not because of failure, but because of reduced usage.

Sending him to Rockford would allow him to rebuild that confidence with steady, high-impact play. And when he returns, whether later this season or next, he’ll be more prepared to step into a bigger role on Chicago’s blue line.

This move would also align with the Blackhawks’ long-term defensive plan. With players like Alex Vlasic and Artyom Levshunov solidifying NHL roles, the team doesn’t need Rinzel to be rushed. They need him to be ready.

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Connor Bedard keeps adding to his growing list of accomplishments, earning the NHL’s third star of the month on Tuesday after powering the Chicago Blackhawks through November. He produced 23 points in 14 games with 10 goals and 13 assists, and he led the league by setting up 11 of those assists as primary helpers.

Bedard now ranks third in the NHL with 37 points through the first 25 games of the season. The 2023 top overall pick also shares fifth place with 16 goals and holds a tie for ninth with 21 assists.

stick taps for our 3rd Star of the Month! pic.twitter.com/b6FAJQSVHZ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 2, 2025

The young Blackhawks star played a part in 52.3 percent of the team’s goals in November and helped guide Chicago to a 6-5-3 record. He also landed among the NHL’s top performers for the month, finishing tied for fifth in power play assists with six, tied for sixth in goals with ten, tied for sixth in power play points with eight, tied for ninth in assists with thirteen, and tied for eleventh in shots on goal with fifty-two.

Connor Bedard with the Blackhawks

In his 14 outings, Bedard consistently made an impact and recorded a point in 10 of those games. He went without a point only four times, matching the number of three point efforts he delivered in November. He reached at least three points on November 7 against Calgary with one goal and three assists, November 9 against Detroit with one goal and two assists, November 18 against Calgary with a hat trick, and November 30 against Anaheim with two goals and two assists.

The Blackhawks sit only one point outside a wildcard position in the Western Conference with an 11-9-5 record, and Bedard has pushed them into that mix. He leads the team in goals, assists, and total points and has built a gap of sixteen points over Tyler Bertuzzi, who ranks second on the roster. Only eight Chicago players have reached double figures in points this season, while Bedard is already closing in on forty and continues to set the pace for the entire group.

Bedard is rapidly emerging as one of the league’s most dominant players early in his third NHL season, while the NHL’s monthly honors highlighted two other standout performers.

Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon earned the top star for November with 26 points on 11 goals and 15 assists in 13 games, and Dallas winger Jason Robertson secured the second star by matching that 26-point output with 13 goals and 13 assists across 15 contests.

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The Chicago Blackhawks continue to see their prospect pool gain national attention, and the latest example comes from forward A.J. Spellacy, who has officially been named to Team USA’s 28-player preliminary camp roster for the 2026 World Junior Championship. USA Hockey revealed the roster on Monday, setting the stage for training camp in Duluth, Minnesota, where some of the best young American talent will compete for a spot on one of the world’s strongest junior teams.

Spellacy’s inclusion highlights the trust USA Hockey has in his development and reflects the strong season he’s having with the Windsor Spitfires. For Blackhawks fans, it provides another exciting glimpse into the future, and the possibility of watching one of Chicago’s prospects compete for gold on the international stage.

A.J. Spellacy joins a loaded team USA forward group

Earning a spot in Team USA’s camp is no small accomplishment. The forward group slated for Duluth features a mix of elite goal scorers, high-skill playmakers, and physically dominant two-way threats, and Spellacy finds himself right in the middle of that group.

The U.S. camp roster includes top NHL prospects like Cole Eiserman, James Hagens, Teddy Stiga, Kamil Bednarik, and Max Plante, forming one of the deepest forward pools USA Hockey has assembled in years. Spellacy being named among these players shows just how much his stock has risen.

This season with the Windsor Spitfires, Spellacy has impressed scouts with his combination of speed, physicality, and a strong shot, which helped him earn a serious look for the World Juniors. USA Hockey believes he can compete for a bottom-six wing role — but his pace and offensive instincts could earn him an even bigger role if he performs well during camp.

The full preliminary roster includes:

Forwards:
Kamil Bednarik, Trevor Connelly, Cole Eiserman, James Hagens, Will Horcoff, Jacob Kvasnicka, Ryker Lee, Cole McKinney, Brendan McMorrow, LJ Mooney, Max Plante, A.J. Spellacy, Teddy Stiga, Shane Vansaghi, Brodie Ziemer

Defensemen:
Asher Barnett, Henry Brzustewicz, EJ Emery, Blake Fiddler, Logan Hensler, Cole Hutson, Adam Kleber, Luke Osburn, Chase Reid, Dakoda Rheaume-Mullen

Goalies:
Caleb Heil, Nick Kempf, AJ Reyelts

USA Hockey is expected to finalize its roster by December 24, ahead of exhibition games against Germany and Finland at AMSOIL Arena. With the U.S. having won back-to-back gold medals, the 2026 group aims to continue that dominance, and Spellacy has a legitimate opportunity to be part of it.

A Big Moment for Spellacy and a Positive Sign for the Blackhawks’ Future

Spellacy’s rise has been steady, and many Blackhawks fans thought he had a realistic shot of making Chicago’s NHL roster after a strong showing during training camp this past summer. He impressed with his skating, energy, and maturity, but the organization ultimately assigned him to the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins to continue developing.

Even so, the camp invite confirms what Chicago’s front office already knows: Spellacy is becoming a real contender for an NHL role in the near future.

For the Chicago Blackhawks, seeing a drafted player earn national attention is an encouraging sign. The franchise is in the middle of a long-term rebuild, and players like Spellacy represent the next wave of talent that will eventually surround Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Kevin Korchinski, Oliver Moore, and Artyom Levshunov.

If Spellacy sticks through the final roster cuts, he will have the chance to represent the U.S. on one of hockey’s biggest stages — a moment that could accelerate his development and give him invaluable experience against elite global competition.

A strong World Junior showing has helped launch the careers of many NHL players, and Spellacy now has that same opportunity in front of him. For Blackhawks fans, it’s one more reason to watch the upcoming World Juniors closely — because the future of Chicago hockey might be skating for Team USA.

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Anaheim Ducks @ Chicago Blackhawks Game Info, Odds & Where to Watch

• Matchup: Anaheim Ducks @ Chicago Blackhawks

• Date & Time: Sunday, November 30, 2025 – 3:30 PM ET / 2:30 PM CT / 12:30 PM PST

• Location: United Center, Chicago, IL

• Broadcast / Streaming: ESPN+, Fubo TV (regional restrictions may apply)

• Odds: Ducks slight favorites (–125), Blackhawks underdogs (+105)

Anaheim Ducks @ Chicago Blackhawks Score Updates/Play-by Play

Chicago Blackhawks and Anaheim Ducks Roster & Injury Report (11/30/2025)

Chicago Blackhawks Roster

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Blackhawks’ Valuation Hits $2.75B — 7th-Highest in NHL, But Still Far From the Top

As valuations soar across the league, the NHL continues to see unprecedented growth — and the Toronto Maple Leafs still sit firmly atop the list. According to the 2025 valuation rankings, the Blackhawks now check in at an estimated $2.75 billion, earning them the 7th-highest valuation among all 32 NHL franchises.

2025 NHL: Top 10 Franchise Valuations

Here’s how the league’s big-market teams stack up, based on the most recent valuations

Rank	Team	Valuation (2025)
1	Toronto Maple Leafs	$4.3B
2	New York Rangers	$3.8B
3	Montreal Canadiens	$3.4B
4	Los Angeles Kings	$3.15B
5	Edmonton Oilers	$3.10B
6	Boston Bruins	$3.05B
7	Chicago Blackhawks	$2.75B
8	Philadelphia Flyers	$2.6B
9	Washington Capitals	$2.5B
10	Detroit Red Wings	$2.47B

What That Means for Chicago Blackhawks

• Financially healthy: With a $2.75B valuation, the Blackhawks remain among the league’s upper-tier franchises. According to Sportico’s 2025 report, Chicago also pulled in roughly $268 million in revenue and posted an EBITDA of around $85 million

• Still behind the heavy hitters: Despite the upside, there’s a big gap between Chicago and the top-valued clubs like Toronto or New York.  It reflects deeper pockets, bigger markets, and more financial flexibility for things like star contracts, marketing, and facility upgrades.

• Valuation doesn’t guarantee wins

Bigger Picture: The NHL’s Rising Tide

• The league as a whole is riding a wave of growth. The average NHL franchise is now worth around $2.1 billion, up significantly from just a few years ago.
• Much of the increase in valuations stems from bigger national media deals, rising revenue from sponsorships and advertising, and — for some clubs — valuable real estate and business-side holdings.
• For teams like the Blackhawks, that broader financial boom offers a chance: with steady profits and a rising valuation, the front office has the theoretical firepower to rebuild, retool, or invest in long-term growth.

How the Blackhawks Compare to Rivals

Chicago sits 7th in NHL franchise valuations, but where does it compare to some of its rivals?

• Detroit Red Wings (10th, ~$2.47B): Chicago maintains a clear edge over Detroit, thanks to higher revenue and stronger EBITDA, but the Red Wings’ loyal fan base and historical prestige keep them competitive in market value.

• Philadelphia Flyers (8th, ~$2.6B): Just ahead of Chicago in valuation, the Flyers’ large media market and sponsorship deals give them slightly higher leverage, though the Blackhawks’ on-ice performance and star power still make Chicago a stronger draw regionally.

• Washington Capitals (9th, ~$2.5B): The Caps round out the top 10, with steady attendance and consistent playoff appearances helping maintain value, but Chicago’s larger market and revenue streams keep the Hawks ahead.

While the gap to the top 5 (Toronto, NY Rangers, Montreal, LA, Edmonton) remains significant, Chicago’s position shows that the team is far from a small-market contender.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have made it no secret that their rebuild centers around a deep, talented prospect pool. While the spotlight often shines on big names like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, the organization’s rising stars extend far beyond the NHL roster. This week, two more promising young players earned national recognition, further strengthening the belief that Chicago’s future is bright.

Defenseman Kevin Korchinski and forward Mason West both cracked Ryan Kennedy’s prestigious “Top 100 Players Age 21 or Under” list for The Hockey News, coming in at No. 57 and No. 51, respectively. For a franchise focused on long-term success, seeing multiple prospects rank among the best young talents in the hockey world is another promising sign that the Blackhawks’ rebuild is on track.

Kevin Korchinski continues his development in the AHL

Defenseman Kevin Korchinski, placed at No. 57, has been one of Chicago’s most intriguing young blueliners ever since he was selected seventh overall in the 2022 NHL Draft. After splitting time between the NHL and AHL last season, the Blackhawks opted to give him more time to sharpen his game with the Rockford IceHogs, a move that already appears to be paying dividends.

Korchinski has recorded one goal and 14 points in 19 games for Rockford this season, showcasing his puck-moving ability and offensive instincts. His skating remains one of his biggest strengths, allowing him to transition the puck quickly and play with confidence on the rush.

Although he is still developing into a full-time NHL defenseman, his upside is undeniable. In 92 career NHL games, the 21-year-old has already posted six goals and 17 points. His growth curve suggests he could eventually become a top-four defenseman, possibly even running a power play unit once he gains more experience and consistency.

What keeps Korchinski on national radars is his blend of size, mobility, and hockey IQ, all traits that modern NHL teams value highly in young defensemen. The Blackhawks remain patient with his progress, knowing that defensemen often take longer to mature fully.

Being recognized among the top 60 prospects under 21 validates both his talent and his potential role in shaping Chicago’s blue line for years to come.

Mason West climbs into the spotlight with impressive production

While Korchinski is a more familiar name to many fans, forward Mason West might be the true “breakout” inclusion on Kennedy’s list. Ranked at No. 51, West’s rise is fueled by a combination of size, scoring ability, and steady development at multiple competitive levels.

West, who stands at an imposing 6-foot-6, had a dominant year at Edina High School, recording 27 goals and 49 points in 31 games. His ability to use his frame effectively, combined with strong puck protection skills and a heavy shot, makes him stand out among his age group.

He also impressed during his stint with the Fargo Force (USHL) last season, tallying one goal and nine points in 10 games, a strong showing against older, faster competition.

While still considered a long-term project, West’s ranking at No. 51 highlights how much potential scouts see in him. With continued development, he could evolve into a powerful top-six forward capable of impacting the game at both ends of the ice.

For the Blackhawks, having a prospect with West’s size and offensive touch is especially valuable as they look to build a more balanced forward group for the future.

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The Chicago Blackhawks found themselves on the wrong side of officiating controversy once again, this time in a 4–3 overtime loss to the Minnesota Wild on Wednesday night at the United Center. Despite building an early 2–0 lead and battling hard throughout the game, the Blackhawks were undone by a highly questionable interference penalty in overtime, a call that directly led to the game-winning goal. While Connor Bedard maintained a calm, respectful stance toward the referees, head coach Jeff Blashill voiced a far more frustrated response.

Chicago has now lost points in two games within a week because of debatable calls, adding pressure to a team trying to stay competitive in the Central Division.

Controversial penalty in overtime leads to Kaprizov’s winner

Just 40 seconds into overtime, Connor Bedard carried the puck out of the neutral zone when Minnesota’s Joel Eriksson Ek delivered a heavy hit on him. Before Bedard could gather himself, Blackhawks forward Ilya Mikheyev stepped in and leveled Eriksson Ek.

The crowd expected play to continue, after all, Ek had played the puck seconds earlier, but was stunned when officials called Mikheyev for interference.
One minute later, Kirill Kaprizov scored the winner on the power play, sealing a frustrating 4–3 loss for Chicago.

After the game, Bedard remained composed despite the controversial moment:
“I got flattened so I didn’t get to see it,” Bedard said. “We’re not going to blame the refs. They’ve got a job to do and it’s not always easy for them.”

Blashill: “If I was to climb into Furman’s mind, he thought Mikky just went over and hit him because he hit Connor. But the reality is, right before Eriksson Ek got hit, he had the puck. It’s not interference.” https://t.co/q7nqeLwTsR

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) November 27, 2025

His coach didn’t hold back. Jeff Blashill openly criticized referee Furman South’s decision:
“If I was to climb into Furman’s mind, he thought Mikky just went over and hit him because he hit Connor. But the reality is, right before Eriksson Ek got hit, he had the puck. It’s not interference.”

This marks the second time in a week officiating has cost Chicago points. In a previous matchup against the Kraken, Bedard received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in the final minutes after protesting a missed slashing call. Seattle scored the game-winner on the power play.

The trend is building frustration, not only within the locker room, but among the fanbase, as the Blackhawks continue to battle through tightly contested games.

Connor Bedard: “Little Mistakes” cost us, but we’re still on the right track

Before the overtime drama, the Blackhawks actually controlled much of the game. Jason Dickinson opened the scoring, followed by a goal from Connor Bedard, who continues to be the team’s most dangerous offensive weapon.

Despite the hot start, Chicago allowed Minnesota back into the game with goals on both sides of the second intermission. Artyom Levshunov briefly restored the Blackhawks’ lead with a smooth finish from the point, but Matt Boldy responded quickly to tie the game at 3–3.

From there, Chicago pushed, created chances, and hung in with the red-hot Wild, but couldn’t secure the extra point.
Bedard admitted the team let one slip away:
“It stinks,” he said. “I thought we played a pretty good game, but just little mistakes that we’ll clean up. There were a lot of positives, but in the end, you’ve got to come out with the two points.”

The loss extended Chicago’s skid to four straight defeats, dropping them to 10-8-5 on the season, fifth in the Central Division with 25 points.
But despite the frustration, there is still optimism. The Blackhawks played with structure, pace, and resilience, traits that Bedard continues to emphasize on and off the ice.

Now the team heads into its next stretch of games, one thing is clear: if they maintain this level of effort while cleaning up the late-game mistakes, Chicago has the potential to climb back into playoff position.
But to do it, they’ll need both discipline… and some better luck with the whistles.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have one major storyline dominating the front office right now, securing a long-term extension for franchise superstar Connor Bedard. As the 20-year-old phenom continues to put up elite numbers in his third NHL season, his price tag is rising by the day. And according to a stunning new report, the Blackhawks may have to hand out one of the most significant contracts in NHL history to keep him in Chicago.

Despite Bedard technically being eligible to become a UFA after this year, all signs indicate both sides will get an extension done. But the real shock is how massive the deal could be. NHL insider Frank Seravalli believes Bedard’s next contract may land between $100 million and $120 million over eight years, a number that would break franchise records and place him among the highest-paid players in the league.

NHL insider predicts massive $100M–$120M deal for Connor Bedard

Frank Seravalli didn’t hold back when laying out what Bedard could command on an eight-year deal.

“If we’re talking about an eight-year deal, Connor Bedard is likely to land somewhere between $12.5–15 million a year. Yes, a relatively big spread at this point and time, but it helps us get the goal posts somewhere between $100 million and $120 million over the term of the deal,” said NHL insider Frank Seravalli.

He added that Chicago should have no problem handling such a massive cap hit:

“I think the Chicago Blackhawks are going to be relatively comfortable knowing the salary cap is increasing in a significant way.”

What could Connor Bedard’s next contract look like?

NHL Insider @frank_seravalli joined @PatBoyle__ on Blackhawks Countdown Live to talk the latest surrounding Bedard’s contract situation pic.twitter.com/kz1zWXdqGV

— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) November 24, 2025

That’s a key detail. The NHL cap is expected to jump aggressively over the next several seasons, giving Chicago flexibility to pay Bedard superstar money while still building around him.

Right now, the Blackhawks have almost $20 million in available cap space (via PuckPedia), and with most of their roster still young and inexpensive, this is the perfect window for GM Kyle Davidson to finalize a mega-deal.

And Bedard’s performance? It only strengthens his case.

Connor Bedard’s explosive season is already driving his price higher

The Blackhawks are off to their best start since 2020, and Bedard is the biggest reason why. With 31 points (13 goals, 18 assists) in 21 games, he is on pace for a 121-point season. That includes a projected 51 goals and 70 assists, numbers reserved for the NHL’s most elite forwards.

His production places him tied for third in the entire league, trailing only Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid. He’s right alongside fellow rising star Macklin Celebrini and well ahead of many established NHL veterans.

On a rebuilding Chicago roster, Bedard isn’t just shining; he’s carrying the offense. Frank Nazar, Artyom Levshunov, and Andre Burakovsky have provided support, but Bedard is the player driving results night after night.

Every time he scores, every highlight-reel moment, and every game-changing shift push his value higher. And as the numbers keep rising, so does the cost, which is precisely why Seravalli’s projection of $12.5–15 million per year is gaining traction.

For the Blackhawks, this isn’t just paying for production. It’s paying for a franchise cornerstone. The centerpiece of the rebuild. The future captain. The player was expected to lead Chicago back into contention.

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The Chicago Blackhawks returned to the United Center on Sunday night with something to prove. After suffering a painful 9–3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres, the team faced the daunting task of regrouping against the NHL’s best squad, the Colorado Avalanche, who entered the matchup with a blistering 16-1-5 record. On paper, it was a mismatch. On the ice, however, the Blackhawks delivered one of their most disciplined and determined performances of the season, even though it ended in a 1–0 defeat.

Sometimes, a loss feels like a step backward. But in this case, Chicago left the rink believing they took an important step forward.

A strong response after the Buffalo meltdown

The Blackhawks came into the game desperate for a reset, and from the opening puck drop, they played with purpose. The first period was arguably one of their best starts in weeks. Chicago didn’t just keep pace with Colorado; it dictated the play. They outshot the Avalanche 11–2, generated multiple grade-A chances, and controlled the tempo. The only thing missing was the finish.

Despite the strong start, the scoreboard stayed locked at 0–0 after 20 minutes. Still, the energy felt different, and the team looked more composed and connected than in Buffalo.

The Avalanche predictably pushed back in the second period. Colorado outshot Chicago 19–1 in a dominant middle frame, and it was during this surge that Cale Makar finally broke through. His rebound goal was the only puck that got behind Spencer Knight, who was nothing short of outstanding. Knight made 25 saves on 26 shots and kept his team within striking distance all night.

In the third period, the Blackhawks pushed aggressively for the equalizer. They created traffic in front, cycled the puck effectively, and sent shot after shot toward Scott Wedgewood. But Colorado’s goaltender was flawless, stopping all 22 shots he faced and securing the shutout.

Even with the loss, head coach Jeff Blashill was encouraged.
“Even with the second [period], I think if we repeat that performance, we win lots of games,” he said. “The other team is going to push back, that’s just reality. I thought we did an excellent job in our structure and with some of the things we didn’t do in Buffalo.”

For a team still finding consistency, that felt like a genuine step in the right direction.

A loss that feels like progress, and what comes next

This 1–0 defeat marks the first time this season the Chicago Blackhawks have dropped three straight games in regulation, but considering where the team was a year ago, that stat highlights improvement rather than disappointment. Every NHL team hits rough patches, and this one is Chicago’s. What matters is how they respond, and the effort against Colorado suggests a rebound is on the horizon.

Blashill emphasized the value of the upcoming practice days:
“We’re going to have a couple of days of practice. Coming in and having greater urgency on Wednesday is going to be critical.”

The Blackhawks have been learning, adapting, and recovering from one of the toughest parts of their early schedule. Facing the top team in the league and nearly grinding out a point shows maturity and growth, especially after a demoralizing loss to Buffalo.

Now, attention turns to Wednesday night, when the Minnesota Wild visit the United Center. It’s the eve of Thanksgiving, historically one of the most electric home crowds of the year, and the Wild enter the matchup red-hot. The building will be loud, emotional, and eager for a bounce-back win.

If the Blackhawks play with the same structure, urgency, and fight that they showed against the Avalanche, they believe positive results will follow.

Sunday’s game may not have added two points to the standings, but it added something just as important: the confidence that this team can compete with anyone when they stick to their identity. And if they “repeat that performance,” as Blashill said, they’ll be on the winning side more often than not.

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Connor Bedard is lighting up the NHL in his third season, but somehow, the 20-year-old superstar isn’t receiving the level of praise he deserves. Despite carrying the Chicago Blackhawks’ offense on his shoulders, despite producing at an elite rate on a team that hasn’t changed much from last season, and despite sitting among the top scorers in the entire league, one insider believes Bedard still might not make Team Canada’s Olympic roster if the selection were held today.

For a player who has quickly become the face of the Blackhawks and one of the brightest young talents in the NHL, that statement shocked fans. And when you look at the numbers, the situation

in Chicago, and the forward options available to Team Canada, it becomes clear: leaving Connor Bedard off the roster would not only be questionable but also a massive mistake.

Connor Bedard is playing at an elite level, even without elite support

The Chicago Blackhawks might be slightly better than last season thanks to the arrival of Frank Nazar, Artyom Levshunov, and Andre Burakovsky, but make no mistake, this is still a team in transition. And yet, Bedard is thriving.

He is tied for third in NHL scoring with fellow phenom Macklin Celebrini, trailing only Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid, arguably the two best players in the world. Bedard’s scoring pace, creativity, shooting ability, and ability to drive offense are among the best across the league.

People often evaluate a player’s performance relative to the talent around him. By that standard, Bedard should be getting more respect. He doesn’t play on a powerhouse team. He doesn’t have an all-star winger feeding him pucks every night. He doesn’t get sheltered minutes. And yet… he keeps producing.

Some critics point to Bedard’s defensive game not being at an elite level, but that’s not what he’s being selected for. Not every Olympic forward needs to be a Selke contender. In fact, many of the players being considered aren’t defensive specialists either. What matters is that Bedard is already one of Canada’s most dangerous offensive weapons, and offense wins medals.

His skill set, even at his age, compares favorably to other smaller, highly skilled players like Mitch Marner, Brayden Point, Seth Jarvis, and Travis Konecny. And based on this season’s performance, Bedard is outproducing many of them.

So why would he not be a lock for Team Canada?

Team politics, coaching preferences, and the “veteran bias” problem

NHL insider Chris Johnston recently made a surprising statement:

“I still think if the roster had to be chosen today… he would not be on the team.”

And that says everything about how complicated Team Canada selections have become.

With John Cooper as head coach and Doug Armstrong as general manager, there’s an unavoidable reality: certain players from the Tampa Bay Lightning and St. Louis Blues organizations are going to get priority. Anthony Cirelli, Brandon Hagel, Brayden Point, Colton Parayko, Jordan Binnington, Robert Thomas… these names will receive heavy consideration for familiarity and system fit.

But Canada has made this mistake before at the World Juniors, choosing “safer” or “older” players over the most talented ones. And when things go wrong, fans immediately look back and ask the same question:
Why didn’t they take the best players?

The competition for forward spots will be intense. Veterans like Mark Stone, Brad Marchand, Travis Konecny, Sam Bennett, and Seth Jarvis will be pushing to return. Meanwhile, top talents who missed the 4 Nations Faceoff, Mark Scheifele, Nick Suzuki, Tom Wilson, Quinton Byfield, Mathew Barzal, Wyatt Johnston, Celebrini, and Bedard, are all in the mix.

But here’s the thing: Bedard isn’t just another young name in the conversation. He is outscoring many established NHL stars. He is electrifying audiences. He is growing into a leader. And he is doing all of this on a team that isn’t anywhere close to the firepower of the teams most Team Canada candidates play on.

If Bedard keeps this pace heading into the official Olympic roster announcement, the pressure on Hockey Canada will be intense. Leaving him off the team would spark outrage across the country, and rightfully so.

Team Canada’s message needs to be simple: bring the best players.

Because if Connor Bedard doesn’t make the roster, the critics won’t be questioning Bedard… they’ll be questioning Hockey Canada.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are entering a new era, and the future leadership core of the franchise is beginning to take shape right before everyone’s eyes. For years, fans and analysts speculated that Connor Bedard would one day become captain, the face of the franchise, and the heartbeat of the locker room. Now, in just his third NHL season, Bedard is showing that those expectations weren’t just fair, they were accurate. And he’s not rising alone.

Alongside him is Frank Nazar, the energetic, upbeat young center whose personality balances Bedard’s seriousness and adds life to the room. Together, the two are proving that the next leadership group of the Blackhawks, built around Bedard, Nazar, and likely Alex Vlasic, may be closer than anyone expected. The handoff from veterans like Nick Foligno, Jason Dickinson, and Connor Murphy appears not only inevitable but also harmonious.

Why Connor Bedard looks like the Blackhawks’ next captain

Connor Bedard has always been the franchise player, but this season, he’s become more than that. He’s become a leader. With Foligno and Dickinson sidelined, Bedard has worn the “A” for the last few games, and coach Jeff Blashill believes he has “absolutely earned it.”

This stretch has given Bedard the chance to show everything a captain must be: productive, honest, vocal, and accountable.

He’s found his voice, a significant shift from his quieter first two seasons. Bedard is still introverted, but he has grown more comfortable speaking up, calling out teammates when needed, and praising them when they excel. He’s also become more open with the media, offering honest, thoughtful responses rather than cautious clichés.

Even during tense moments, Bedard is learning how to carry himself like a leader. His unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against the Kraken was a mistake, but it was a moment he learned from, a reminder of how captains must balance passion with restraint.

And then there’s his play. Bedard is tied for third in league scoring with 31 points in 21 games, putting him on a staggering 121-point pace. His output, competitiveness, and consistency place him firmly in “best-player, best-leader” territory, the modern trend in the NHL where superstars like McDavid and MacKinnon carry the responsibility of the “C.”

Connor Murphy captured it perfectly:
“His comfort zone and maturity socially among the team… has taken a big step this year. You see those leadership qualities coming out of him.”

Bedard isn’t just the Blackhawks’ most talented player; he’s becoming their emotional engine. And with the veterans on expiring contracts, his time as captain feels closer than ever.

Why Frank Nazar is built for the alternate captain role

If Bedard represents the steady, serious leadership style, Frank Nazar is his perfect complement, the spark plug who keeps everyone connected and energized. Nazar’s personality is magnetic. He walks into the room and immediately lifts the mood.

“He wakes up most days and the sky is blue,” Blashill joked earlier this season. “Too many of us wake up and it’s cloudy. But not him.”

Nazar’s upbeat nature isn’t accidental; he puts effort into making sure every teammate feels supported. If someone seems down, he picks them up with a laugh, a joke, or a compliment. Hockey is supposed to be fun, Nazar insists, and he works to make it feel that way.

But underneath the lightheartedness is a focused, competitive center that wants to succeed badly. Nazar has 15 points in 19 games, suitable for a 65-point pace. He has taken firm control of the second-line center role. He knows how to be serious when moments demand it, and he’s learning how to thrive under pressure.

“When you’re blessed enough to play as much as I do, it’s something you should take on,” Nazar said. “It’s not pressure, it’s discipline.”

Veterans see the leadership qualities, too.

“Frank and Connor have taken it upon themselves to say, ‘I’m going to win games for us, night after night.’ That’s leadership,” Jason Dickinson said.

Nazar brings joy, Bedard brings focus. Together they form the perfect leadership duo for a young team learning how to win again.

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The Chicago Blackhawks suffered a frustrating loss at the hands of the Seattle Kraken on Thursday night at the United Center. Falling 3-2 and watching the Kraken get three third-period goals, the Blackhawks had a chance on a Connor Bedard breakaway in that period.

Bedard had the breakaway with 4:25 left in the game, getting behind Kraken defenseman Ryan Lindgren. The attempt was no good as Lindgren’s slash was not called. And the Blackhawks, particularly Bedard were furious.

The young superstar let his feelings be known to referee Justin Kea with some gestures. Kea was not happy and then called an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Bedard, sending him to the box.

Connor Bedard took an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after arguing there was a missed call on his breakaway attempt pic.twitter.com/hwh4YH7FR3

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) November 21, 2025

The Kraken took advantage as Jaden Schwartz got the game-deciding goal. It’s no question that the call decided the game and following the loss, Jeff Blashill made his frustrations known.

Jeff Blashill lashes out on referee for missed call

Following the game, Blashill defended his young superstar who got the penalty.  He went off on the referring in the game at that key moment.

“It’s a penalty… When you don’t have position on a guy, and you put your stick in there and you hit his glove — yes he got the stick after, but the first contact was on his glove — it’s a penalty,” Blashill said.

“And then I don’t know what was said, but it better have been really, really, really personal to be that sensitive about it. Because you’re deciding games… It better have been really, really personal if you’re not going to have enough thick skin to just keep playing through it.”

Bedard wasn’t shy about talking about the missed penalty, either. He took a different approach though, saying he has to be better controlling his emotions.

“Obviously, in the moment, you think it’s a penalty,” Bedard said Thursday via the Chicago Sun-Times. “But I have to control my emotions in a better way. I put our team in a vulnerable spot there, so [I’ve] just got to be better.”

At this stage of his career, Bedard should be getting rewarded with penalties like that. But it didn’t happen and instead, the Blackhawks took a loss as they head to Buffalo for their next game on Friday.

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Connor Bedard was once again at the center of the hockey world as he recorded his second career hat trick in the Blackhawks’ 5-2 win over the Flames Tuesday night at the United Center. Bedard’s big night helped the Blackhawks improve to a six-game point streak. The team is in the midst of a lengthy homestand, and during his postgame interview with CHSN color man Darren Pang, Bedard commented on the crowds at the United Center during the past few games.

“I think the last three games have been probably the loudest of my career. We feed off that so much, we appreciate it.”

Blackhawks fans are restoring the roar at the Madhouse

Bedard is in his third year as a Blackhawk, and it speaks volumes when he mentions the last few home games being the loudest of his career. It’s no surprise the building is louder to the fans, considering the team is taking a big step forward. The growing enthusiasm for the young team is not going unnoticed by the players.

Saturday night against the Maple Leafs, a season high 20,489 showed up at the United Center and gave the barn a playoff-like atmosphere in their 3-2 win. While a Saturday game against an Original Six team with a special centennial ceremony commemorating “The Originals” is an attractive draw regardless, it was that raucous atmosphere that Bedard spoke about that is so special. There have been a handful of big ceremonies at the United Center in recent years, ending with dud on the ice and an anticlimactic atmosphere.

The later weekday games against non-rivals, like the one on Tuesday, are not selling out yet. Though the feeling is that the enthusiasm among the fanbase is growing quickly, and more sellout or close to selling out games at the Madhouse could be on the horizon. Maybe not 2009-2015 dynasty levels yet, but an increase. Even compared to earlier home games before this homestand, when they were drawing around 15-16K.

https://x.com/ByScottPowers/status/1990983033940255222

Blackhawks players are feeding off the fans

As mentioned, Bedard showed appreciation to the fans. Mentioning how the team “feeds” off the fans and each other. It’s been noticeable that the young Hawks are growing more confident by the game. Being a young, hungry squad and feeling this type of energy like they have not before has to aid that confidence, and they have made clear that that’s the case.

Call it cliché or corny, but human emotions are very real. Imagine being a 20-year-old playing the game you’ve known your whole life in front of a deafening crowd cheering you on. One can only comprehend how that must feel. It was the same case in 2007-2008 when Chicago began to take notice of Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane.

It’s time to start spreading the news and get more people to the United Center and be even louder.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have now improved to a 10-5-4 record following Tuesday’s 5-2 win over the Calgary Flames. The Hawks are now 5-0-1 in their last six games.

More news: Chicago Bears surge into top 10 of NFL power rankings

The biggest highlight from Tuesday night’s huge win was Connor Bedard’s second career hat trick. The young phenom has been on fire this season, and he’s officially entering superstar territory.

The Chicago Blackhawks officially have a new superstar in Connor Bedard

More news: Ben Johnson’s impact continues to show for the Chicago Bears

In his last 10 games, Bedard has dominated the entire NHL. The Hawks’ center is officially living up to the hype he brought when he was drafted in 2023.

Bedard has scored 10 goals and gotten 11 assists for a total of 21 points in his last 10 games. He has gotten now two hat tricks during this stretch. Bedard now ranks fourth in the NHL in total points as well.

The Blackhawks have played like a completely new team under Jeff Blashill. The improvement this team has made compared to last year is night and day. Through the ten game stretch, the team has a record of 6-2-2 and are now in fourth place of the central division.

Via Bleacher Report Open Ice on X:

Connor Bedard’s last 10 games:

– 10 Goals
– 11 Assists
– 21 Points
– 2 Hat Tricks (0 In His Career Before That)
– 6-2-2 Record For The Hawks

Superstar. pic.twitter.com/ItxOyR3uY9

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) November 19, 2025

The Blackhawks officially have their new superstar. And if this young core can continue to play great hockey, we might see playoff hockey again sooner than we all expected.

CONNOR BEDARD GETS HIS SECOND CAREER HAT TRICK pic.twitter.com/l6lTSzGUhq

— NHL (@NHL) November 19, 2025

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With two members of the Chicago Blackhawks’ leadership group out of the lineup, Connor Bedard stepped onto the ice wearing the “A” on his jersey for the first time in his NHL career. And if there was ever a moment to show he belonged in a leadership role, Tuesday night was it. Bedard delivered an unforgettable performance, scoring his second hat trick in just ten games to lift the Blackhawks to a 5–2 victory over the Calgary Flames at the United Center.

From his hustle to his scoring touch to his calm presence in crucial moments, Bedard didn’t just lead, he inspired. The 20-year-old superstar now has 13 goals and 16 assists for 29 points in 19 games, putting him in elite company near the top of the NHL scoring race. Nights like this are reminders that not only is he the centerpiece of Chicago’s future, but he’s already the heartbeat of the present.

Connor Bedard’s leadership, speed, and scoring spark Blackhawks’ strong start

Wearing the “A” might have been new, but Bedard carried himself as though he’d been a leader for years. Even before the goals came, he set the tone with his pace and level of competition.

“I’ve been so fortunate to learn from guys like Foligno, Dickinson, Murphy… it’s a great honor,” Bedard said of being named an alternate captain. “The Blackhawks jersey is special.”

And he played like it.

After a slow first period where Ryan Donato opened the scoring, Bedard exploded in the second. On a loose puck near center ice, he turned on the jets, showing off the speed he added in the offseason, and beat Flames defenseman Yan Kuznetsov in a footrace before poking the puck through Dustin Wolf’s pads for his 11th goal of the season.

Later, with the score tied 2–2 early in the third, Bedard responded instantly. After a slick pass from Ryan Greene, Bedard stepped into the puck and ripped it into the top corner to make it 3–2. The puck almost seemed to leap off his stick, a perfect example of the shooting talent that has turned him into one of the most dangerous young players in hockey.

His teammates certainly noticed.

“What he’s doing right now is huge for our team,” rookie Oliver Moore said. “The way he’s playing both sides of the puck… it’s leadership.”

The chemistry between Bedard, Greene, and Moore was on full display. Moore later added the 4–2 insurance marker before Bedard completed his hat trick with an empty-net strike from his own zone.

This was Bedard’s second hat trick of the month, and he now trails only Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid in points. Calgary, meanwhile, has seen him put up seven points in their past two meetings alone.

Blackhawks keep rolling as Connor Bedard ignites the offense

While Bedard powered the offense, Chicago continued to prove it’s one of the hottest teams in the NHL. The Blackhawks are now 5-0-1 in their last six and 10-3-3 in their previous sixteen, their best stretch since 2019.

It wasn’t always perfect. After dominating the first two periods, the Hawks briefly slipped in the third. Calgary tied the game early after a turnover by Wyatt Kaiser, but Chicago responded instantly, something that has become a trend this season.

The Flames tried to turn the physicality up, dishing out big hits, including Adam Klapka’s dangerous check on Connor Murphy. But instead of losing focus, the Hawks built momentum. Moore scored on a driving play to the net, Greene collected another assist, and the team tightened up defensively.

When Calgary pulled their goalie, the crowd rose to its feet, sensing Bedard’s chance at the hat trick. He didn’t disappoint. After regaining the puck in the defensive zone, he fired it the length of the ice into the empty net, sending hats raining down in celebration.

The Blackhawks also improved to 6-0-0 when leading after two periods, another sign of their growing maturity.

Ryan Donato summed up the mood perfectly:
“It’s a completely different atmosphere in the locker room… it’s fun to be around right now.”

And with Connor Bedard leading in both scoring and spirit, it’s easy to see why. This wasn’t just another win, it was a statement. The Blackhawks are rising, their young core is flourishing, and Bedard is proving why he is already one of hockey’s brightest stars.

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There was finally a positive sight for the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday morning as goaltender Laurent Brossoit took the ice ahead of practice, his first appearance in well over a year. For a player who hasn’t seen NHL action since April 2024, it’s a significant step forward after what has been a long and frustrating stretch filled with setbacks, surgeries, and uncertainty.

While Brossoit is still far from returning to game action, his presence at the United Center marks a potential turning point. The veteran netminder signed a two-year, $6.6 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks last offseason but has yet to play a single minute for the team. With months of rehab behind him and a crease now dominated by young, in-form goalies, his path back to the NHL remains anything but clear.

A grueling year of injuries and surgeries

Laurent Brossoit’s journey since joining the Chicago Blackhawks has been nothing short of challenging. After signing as a free agent in the summer of 2024, expectations were high that he would bring experience and stability behind starter Petr Mrázek. However, things quickly took a turn for the worse.

In late August 2024, Brossoit underwent meniscus surgery on his knee, an injury initially expected to sideline him for a couple of months. Instead, his recovery kept getting delayed, and by November, he was officially listed as out indefinitely. Around Thanksgiving, he underwent a second knee procedure, which was supposed to set him up for a mid-January return. But that comeback never materialized.

After months of silence, the Blackhawks eventually shut him down for the rest of the 2024–25 season. To make matters worse, he had to undergo yet another operation, this time on his hip, over the summer. General manager Kyle Davidson confirmed at training camp that Brossoit would remain out for the long term, leading many to believe he might never actually suit up for the Chicago Blackhawks.

That’s why Thursday’s development is so significant. Seeing Brossoit back on the ice, even just for light skating, represents a huge personal milestone after over a year of rehabilitation. However, after such a long layoff, it’s likely still weeks or even months before he’s ready to play again.

Before his string of injuries, Brossoit was coming off the best stretch of his career. In 2023–24, he posted a .927 save percentage, a 2.00 goals-against average (GAA), and three shutouts in 22 starts for the Winnipeg Jets. The year before, with the Vegas Golden Knights, he went 7-0-3 with a .927 SV% and 2.17 GAA. Statistically, he ranked among the NHL’s top six goalies in goals saved above expected, proving himself as one of the league’s most efficient backups.

That version of Brossoit is precisely who the Chicago Blackhawks were hoping to get, a reliable, experienced goaltender who could lighten the workload of an aging starter. Unfortunately, his health had other plans.

No clear path back into Chicago’s crease

Even if Brossoit makes a full recovery, finding a place for him in the current Chicago Blackhawks lineup could be difficult. The team’s goaltending situation has evolved dramatically over the past year, largely thanks to the emergence of Spencer Knight.

Acquired from the Florida Panthers as part of the Seth Jones deal, Knight has been nothing short of outstanding this season. In 13 starts, the 23-year-old has a .924 save percentage, a 2.42 GAA, and 14.7 goals saved above expected, making him one of the league’s best goaltenders so far. His calm presence and athletic style have turned him into the backbone of Chicago’s defense.

Backing him up is Arvid Söderblom, a 26-year-old who proved last season that he can handle NHL minutes. Though his starts have been limited this year, he’s been solid with a 2-2-1 record, a .913 SV%, and a 2.63 GAA, more than enough to maintain his spot as the team’s secondary option.

That leaves Brossoit without a clear role. Carrying three goalies isn’t practical for the Blackhawks, especially with Knight handling the bulk of the starts. If Brossoit is medically cleared, he’ll likely be placed on waivers and assigned to the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs to regain conditioning and form.

Given his extended absence, it’s unlikely that any team would trade for him until he proves he can handle consistent playing time again. Still, his return to the ice offers hope, both for himself and for Chicago’s goaltending depth. If he can stay healthy, he could yet become a valuable piece, whether as insurance for Knight or as a trade option before next summer’s free agency.

For now, Chicago Blackhawks fans can take solace in seeing a once-promising addition finally back in uniform. After everything he’s endured, Laurent Brossoit’s comeback effort deserves nothing short of admiration.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are once again relying on a developmental strategy that has already paid off once this season. After watching rookie defenseman Artyom Levshunov take a significant leap following a brief healthy scratch earlier this fall, the Hawks have now applied that same reset approach to fellow rookie Sam Rinzel. Rinzel, who entered the season with huge expectations, had been showing signs of struggle in recent games, and the coaching staff felt this was the right time to help him regroup.

Rinzel was scratched in Saturday’s matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs, a move designed not as punishment but as a chance for him to mentally reset and study the game from a higher vantage point. The Blackhawks believe the pause will help him return sharper, more aware, and more confident. And according to head coach Jeff Blashill, Rinzel is already set to rejoin the lineup as the seventh defenseman on Tuesday against the Calgary Flames.

A mental reset to spark growth

Artyom Levshunov’s early-season turnaround set the blueprint for how the Chicago Blackhawks want to support their young defensemen. Levshunov struggled out of the gate but responded strongly after sitting out as a healthy scratch. His performance against the Maple Leafs last weekend was arguably his best yet in the NHL, a sign that the tough-love approach was working.

For Sam Rinzel, the pattern is similar. The 21-year-old showed early-season inconsistency, improved significantly over a nine-game stretch, and then began slipping again. Instead of letting the downward trend continue, Blashill stepped in with intentional guidance.

“Sometimes as a coach, you sit a guy to give him a chance to take a breath, regroup, and re-attack it,” Blashill said. “He has shown he’s a great defenseman in this league… We just need him to get back to that level.”

Rinzel admitted he knows he needs to be better:
“I’ve got to be better in a couple areas of the ice that I know I’m actually relatively good at. I’ve been in these little lulls before in my life. I know my game — when I’m playing well — is confident and I’m making plays.”

The statistics reflect his ups and downs. During five-on-five action, Rinzel’s scoring-chance ratio fluctuated from 34% up to 52.5% and then down to 31.4% across different stretches of his 17 games. His ice time also dropped from an average of nearly 20 minutes to just 11:29 in his most recent outing. Losing his spot on the top power-play unit, now led by Levshunov, has also impacted his usage.

The Blackhawks aren’t questioning Rinzel’s talent. Instead, they’re helping him refine his awareness. Coaches want him to recognize dangerous situations quicker, especially when the play turns the other way.

One glaring example came against Seattle on November 3rd. A neutral-zone turnover from Frank Nazar became costly when Rinzel skated past a loose puck, turning it into an avoidable two-on-one rush. Situations like these are why Blashill wants Rinzel to think defensively first when plays develop:

“I have to make sure I’m the fifth guy. I have to make sure I’m behind him. I can’t hang in there hoping we keep the puck, because the next thing you know, it’s a breakaway the other way.”

High expectations, normal growing pains

Sam Rinzel came into the season carrying sky-high expectations, some fair, some not. His impressive nine-game tryout last April had many believing he could step right in as the Chicago Blackhawks’ No. 1 defenseman and even compete for the Calder Trophy in 2025–26.

But reality is different. He’s only 21, still developing physically, and has just 26 NHL games to his name. It’s natural for young defensemen to struggle, perhaps even more than forwards, because their mistakes often lead directly to scoring chances against.

The encouraging news for the Hawks is Rinzel’s attitude. Blashill praised him for handling adversity well:
“Some of these guys are crazy hard on themselves, whereas he’s got a pretty positive outlook and moves on to the next day.”

Rinzel’s role for now will be more controlled, likely as the seventh defenseman, allowing him to rebuild confidence without the pressure of top-pair minutes.

If the Levshunov example is any indication, this reset could be precisely what Rinzel needs to get back on an upward trajectory. The Blackhawks are committed to patience, and Rinzel remains a key piece of their long-term vision.

With Chicago focused on developing its young core, helping Rinzel steady his game is essential, and this might be the first step in helping him become the defenseman many expect him to be.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have started the season on a surprisingly strong note, sparking renewed optimism among fans who are beginning to dream about a return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2020. However, as the team advances, attention is shifting to both the future, particularly a new contract for star forward Connor Bedard, and to some immediate concerns that could impact their playoff hopes.

Recent reports suggest that several NHL scouts were in attendance during the Blackhawks’ overtime loss to the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday night, fueling speculation that trade discussions could be heating up. At the same time, head coach Jeff Blashill made headlines after calling out young defenseman Sam Rinzel for his recent struggles on the ice, highlighting the team’s ongoing need for consistency on the blue line.

Chicago Blackhawks draw trade attention as scouts circle and cap space looms

It’s not unusual for NHL scouts to be present at regular-season games, but the number of them spotted at the United Center has drawn attention. Analyst Tab Bamford noted that “the buzz about the number of scouts at the Blackhawks game last night” has people wondering just how soon the team might make a move.

Bamford emphasized that while Chicago’s Blue Line “is still very much a work in progress,” the organization may not be ready to compromise its developing depth just yet. The Blackhawks currently have around $14 million in salary cap space, which gives general manager Kyle Davidson plenty of flexibility should he decide to add reinforcements.

fwiw, with the buzz about the number of scouts at the #Blackhawks game last night getting some to wonder about how soon trades could happen for Chicago:

the blue line is still very much a work in progress. I don’t see the Hawks compromising their depth quite yet https://t.co/2ifCXdLPsD

— Tab Bamford (@The1Tab) November 13, 2025

For now, however, Davidson’s main focus remains the long-term picture, particularly a new contract for Connor Bedard, the franchise’s centerpiece and 2023 first-overall pick. Bedard has been nothing short of electric this season, consistently ranking among the league’s top point producers and injecting fresh energy into the team’s offense.

The 19-year-old phenom is already being viewed as the cornerstone around which Chicago’s next competitive era will be built. Locking him into a new deal is not only a priority but also a statement about the team’s commitment to building around its young core.

Still, there’s no denying that the Blackhawks could use an additional boost to solidify their playoff push. With the blue line still developing and a few forwards struggling for form, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Davidson explore the trade market in the coming weeks, especially if the team remains competitive in the Central Division standings.

Jeff Blashill calls out Sam Rinzel after overtime loss

While trade talks swirl around the Chicago Blackhawks, head coach Jeff Blashill made headlines of his own following the team’s 4-3 overtime loss to the Devils. In his postgame comments, Blashill didn’t mince words when addressing defenseman Sam Rinzel’s performance.

“Rinzel has gone through a cycle where he’s given up a lot of chances,” Blashill said. “Crevier has been a really good defender for us. Going into the game, we were looking at potentially having Vlasic-Crevier vs. Hughes and/or Hischier, and that happened a lot. We have to get Rinz back going.”

The message was clear, Rinzel, who has tallied just three points (1 goal, 2 assists) in 17 games, needs to elevate his game if he wants to remain a key part of Chicago’s defensive rotation. The 21-year-old has shown flashes of potential, but inconsistency has been an issue, particularly in his defensive positioning and puck decisions.

Blashill’s comments also underline the team’s broader challenge: maintaining defensive stability while allowing young players the freedom to develop. The Blackhawks’ blue line has been a mixture of youth and experience, but gaps in coverage and untimely mistakes have cost the team valuable points.

Rinzel’s development will be crucial as Chicago aims to build a strong foundation for the future. With prospects like Alex Vlasic and Louis Crevier showing steady growth, the team is clearly prioritizing a defensive identity rooted in speed, structure, and smart decision-making.

As the season progresses, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves walking a fine line between rebuilding and competing. Connor Bedard’s brilliance continues to fuel hope, but it’s clear that consistency, especially on defense, remains a key hurdle. Whether it’s through internal improvement or a well-timed trade, Chicago’s next few weeks could be decisive in shaping its path toward a potential playoff berth.

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The Chicago Blackhawks had their eyes set on a big win as they opened their four-game homestand against the Eastern Conference-leading New Jersey Devils on Wednesday night. And with Connor Bedard continuing his incredible run, things looked promising for the home team. But despite another dazzling performance from Bedard, the Blackhawks had to settle for a single point after a heartbreaking 4-3 overtime loss at the United Center.

The game had everything: late drama, a hat trick from a defenseman, and moments of brilliance from young stars on both sides. In the end, it was Devils defenseman Simon Nemec who stole the spotlight, scoring his first career hat trick, including the overtime winner that stunned Chicago fans and extended New Jersey’s winning streak against the Blackhawks to seven games.

Connor Bedard’s scoring streak continues as Chicago keeps fighting

Connor Bedard once again proved why he’s becoming the face of the Chicago Blackhawks’ rebuild. The 19-year-old phenom opened the scoring late in the first period with a 5-on-3 power-play goal, extending his points streak to a career-high nine games. During this stretch, Bedard has collected eight goals and 11 assists, ranking among the NHL’s top scorers, tied for second in total points (26), fifth in assists (16), and tenth in goals (10).

His early strike energized the Blackhawks, but the Devils quickly showed why they sit near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Despite Spencer Knight’s heroics in goal, including an impressive stretch where he faced 14 shots in the second period and kept Chicago alive, the relentless New Jersey offense eventually broke through. With just 15 seconds left in the second frame, Simon Nemec skated in from the left and tucked a smooth backhander past Knight to tie it 1-1, marking his first goal in 15 games this season.

The third period was full of action and emotion. Landon Slaggert, who was called up from Rockford of the AHL just a day earlier, made an immediate impact by deflecting a shot into the net to give Chicago a 2-1 lead. The Devils responded when Dawson Mercer fired home a one-timer from a perfect feed by Jack Hughes.

Then came one of the highlights of the night, a breathtaking solo effort from Sam Lafferty. Blazing past defenders, Lafferty scored his first point of the season to put Chicago ahead 3-2 with a little over six minutes to play. It felt like the Blackhawks might finally break their losing streak against New Jersey. But the Devils weren’t done yet.

Nemec, set up once again by Hughes, unleashed a powerful one-timer from the left side with under four minutes remaining in regulation to tie the game 3-3, setting the stage for an intense overtime.

Simon Nemec’s hat trick steals the show in overtime

As overtime began, both teams pushed hard for the extra point. But it was Simon Nemec who completed his unforgettable night. Just 3:38 into the extra period, Nemec received a long stretch pass from goaltender Jacob Markstrom, raced in on a breakaway, and beat Knight high on the glove side to seal the 4-3 win for the Devils.

The 21-year-old defenseman’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, scoring his second straight game-winner, recording his first multi-goal outing, and notching his first career hat trick. Meanwhile, Jack Hughes continued his strong play with two assists, helping New Jersey improve to 3-0-1 in their last four games. Markstrom, steady in the net, finished with 17 saves for the Devils.

For Chicago, Spencer Knight stopped 33 shots in a solid effort, while Bedard, Lafferty, and Slaggert all contributed goals. Ryan Donato also reached a personal milestone, skating in his 500th NHL game, a proud moment even on a tough night.

While the overtime loss stung, the Chicago Blackhawks showed resilience and flashes of their growing potential. Connor Bedard’s continued brilliance remains a bright spot for fans, and as the team settles into its homestand, there’s plenty of optimism that better results are just around the corner.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are surprising many across the NHL this season. Through their first 16 games, the team has climbed to third place in the Central Division, putting themselves squarely in the playoff mix — a position few predicted just a few months ago. Whether or not they manage to secure a postseason berth, one thing is clear: this version of the Blackhawks can compete with anyone.

Led by superstar Connor Bedard, who has taken yet another step forward in his development, Chicago is finally showing signs of becoming a legitimate contender again. But what makes the Blackhawks’ situation even more exciting is that their future looks just as bright — if not brighter, than their present. With a wave of top prospects nearing NHL readiness and more than $50 million in projected cap space, general manager Kyle Davidson has the flexibility and resources to reshape the roster into a long-term powerhouse.

Key prospects ready to join the NHL ranks

The Chicago Blackhawks’ resurgence isn’t just about Bedard’s brilliance. It’s also about what’s coming next. In addition to a solid young core already in the lineup, the organization’s prospect pool is one of the strongest in the NHL — and several names are expected to arrive in North America by next summer.

Among the most anticipated are Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov, two promising forwards expected to compete for NHL roster spots in the 2026–27 season.

Frondell, the third overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, is off to a strong start in Sweden’s top league (SHL), where he’s posted 12 points in 17 games. Known for his combination of size, skating, and two-way awareness, Frondell projects as a top-six center capable of making an immediate impact when he crosses over.

Meanwhile, Kantserov has been lighting up the KHL with 27 points in 25 games, establishing himself as one of the top young scorers in Russia. His playmaking and offensive creativity could make him a perfect future linemate for Bedard, giving the Blackhawks an explosive one-two punch on offense.

Both players are expected to attend Chicago’s next training camp, where they’ll compete for NHL spots. For fans, that competition will be must-watch hockey — a glimpse into the future of the franchise.

At the same time, the Rockford IceHogs, Chicago’s AHL affiliate, continue to develop several other key prospects who could fill depth roles next season. The organization’s ability to build talent from within gives Kyle Davidson the flexibility to be aggressive in free agency without sacrificing long-term development.

A big summer ahead: cap space and free-agent targets

Even as the Blackhawks make strides this season, all eyes are on what’s shaping up to be a massive 2026 offseason. With more than $50 million in projected salary cap space, Kyle Davidson has the freedom to make major moves — whether that means re-signing key players, extending Bedard, or landing top-tier free agents.

There’s already buzz about several potential stars who could be available next summer. Big names like Jason Robertson, Artemi Panarin, and Alex Tuch could find themselves on Chicago’s radar. Each would bring veteran leadership and proven offensive production to complement the team’s young core.

While it’s far too early to predict who the Blackhawks will sign, one thing is certain: Davidson’s patient approach to rebuilding the roster is starting to pay off. By developing prospects properly and managing cap space wisely, he’s positioned the franchise to take a significant step forward.

Of course, Bedard’s looming contract extension will also be a headline moment. The young superstar has lived up to every expectation as the face of the franchise, and Chicago will undoubtedly look to lock him up long-term. Even after that deal, the organization will have plenty of financial flexibility to strengthen its depth and add veteran talent. For fans, this offseason could mark the actual turning point, when the rebuild gives way to contention.

The future looks promising for the Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks are finally moving in the right direction. A competitive team on the ice, elite prospects on the way, and a front office with ample cap space, it’s the perfect recipe for sustained success.

This season may still have its growing pains, but Chicago’s foundation looks stronger than it has in years. With Connor Bedard leading the charge and a new generation of stars preparing to join him, the Blackhawks’ future is shaping up to be something special.

Whether through development or free agency, the next chapter of this storied franchise promises to be an exciting one — and for the first time in a long time, Blackhawks fans have every reason to believe again.

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Connor Bedard is off to a brilliant start in his third NHL season with the Chicago Blackhawks, proving once again why he’s one of the brightest young stars in hockey. Through 16 games, the 20-year-old center has already collected 25 points (7 goals, 18 assists), placing him in a tie for second in the NHL scoring race.

Connor Bedard is also riding an eight-game point streak, during which he’s tallied seven goals and 11 assists — all primary helpers — while helping the Blackhawks to an 8-5-3 record, their best start since 2016–17.

Yet despite his impressive production and visible improvement in all areas of his game, it appears that Bedard may not be on Team Canada’s projected roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. According to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun, Bedard is currently viewed as being “on the outside looking in,” falling just behind another young Canadian standout, Macklin Celebrini, in the eyes of Canada’s management.

Connor Bedard’s Olympic chances take a hit

Team Canada’s general manager, Doug Armstrong, is expected to bring 14 forwards to Italy next February. With so many established NHL superstars available, competition for those final roster spots is fierce. So far, five forwards have already been named to the team: Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Brayden Point, and Sam Reinhart.

Joining them are players who represented Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off Tournament, such as Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, Brandon Hagel, and Sam Bennett, all of whom are expected to cut. Mark Stone of the Vegas Golden Knights is also a near-lock if healthy, despite currently being sidelined with a wrist injury. That already leaves just a handful of openings in Canada’s forward group.

Among those competing for the remaining spots are Seth Jarvis, Anthony Cirelli, Travis Konecny, Nick Suzuki, Mark Scheifele, Tom Wilson, Wyatt Johnston, Robert Thomas, and, of course, Connor Bedard. While Bedard’s numbers and highlight-reel plays make a strong case for inclusion, the debate centers around team balance and experience.

According to Johnston and LeBrun, the young forward currently sits in a “second tier” of contenders, behind Celebrini, who has made a strong case for himself after a breakout showing at the 2025 World Championship and an excellent start to his rookie season with the San Jose Sharks. Celebrini, just 18 years old, has 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists) in 16 games and brings a more defensively responsible match — something that might give him the edge in Canada’s bottom-six forward slots.

Canada’s management reportedly views the decision between Bedard and Celebrini as an “either-or” scenario. While Bedard offers elite offensive instincts, Celebrini’s versatility and ability to play in multiple roles could make him a safer choice for a tournament expected to feature what many call a “grown-man’s game.”

Connor Bedard keeps evolving and deserves consideration

While Team Canada’s depth is historically stacked, Connor Bedard’s growth this season makes a compelling argument for why he should be on the Olympic roster. Once viewed strictly as an offensive player, Bedard has significantly improved his two-way game. His defensive reads, forechecking pressure, and puck awareness have all made significant strides forward.

He’s also shown noticeable improvement in the faceoff circle, now winning 46.7 percent of his draws — a meaningful leap from the sub-39 percent rate he posted in each of his first two seasons. His commitment to both ends of the ice was perfectly showcased in his highlight-reel goal against the Calgary Flames, where he turned a defensive play into a dazzling solo rush that ended with the puck in the back of the net.

Bedard has also displayed a new level of toughness and composure. He’s been more assertive in scrums, showing he’s not afraid to push back despite being smaller than most opponents. “He’s not going to take any s**t,” as Bedard himself put it earlier this year — a mindset that fits perfectly with the gritty, competitive tone of Olympic hockey.

Still, as strong as his case is, the decision may come down to timing and roster makeup. With so many established veterans ahead of him and younger stars like Celebrini surging, Bedard may simply fall victim to Canada’s overwhelming forward depth.

Even so, Bedard’s Olympic exclusion — if it happens — should not be seen as a slight. He’s only 20 years old and already producing at an elite level while rounding out his overall game. If he keeps this pace, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a fixture on Team Canada for years to come.

For now, Connor Bedard’s focus remains on leading the Chicago Blackhawks to continued success. His eight-game point streak, growing maturity, and team-first mentality have already set the tone for a franchise on the rise.

Whether or not he makes the trip to Milan next February, Bedard’s progression this season has been undeniable. He’s proving not only that he can dominate offensively but that he’s evolving into a complete, responsible, and fearless player.

If Canada does leave him off the 2026 Olympic roster, there’s little doubt they’ll have a tough time doing so again in the future — because Connor Bedard’s star power is only getting stronger.

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The NHL has once again recognized Connor Bedard’s incredible play, naming the Chicago Blackhawks superstar center as the Second Star of the Week for the period of November 3–9. The 20-year-old phenom continued his outstanding start to the 2025–26 season by posting 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists) in just four games, helping lift Chicago into third place in the Central Division.

Bedard’s explosive week not only highlighted his growing dominance in the league but also showed why he’s quickly becoming one of the most consistent offensive forces in hockey. His blend of skill, poise, and leadership continues to define the Blackhawks’ resurgence, reminding fans across the league that a new generation of NHL greatness has officially arrived.

Connor Bedard’s record-breaking week showcases his growth

Connor Bedard has already set the bar high in his young career, but his recent stretch of games demonstrated that he’s evolving into an even more complete player. According to the NHL’s release, Bedard ranked second in the league in scoring for the week with 3 goals and 7 assists across four appearances, a performance that powered Chicago to three crucial wins.

He kicked off the week by assisting on the Blackhawks’ only goal in a 3–1 loss to the Seattle Kraken on November 3. Bedard then followed that up with a 1 goal, 1 assist performance in a 5–2 victory over his hometown team, the Vancouver Canucks, on November 5 — a game that held extra emotional weight for the young star.

With a three-point performance on Sunday afternoon, Connor Bedard now leads the League in points with 25!

It just keeps getting more impressive. pic.twitter.com/fHuR52gNxh

— NHL (@NHL) November 9, 2025

Two nights later, Bedard was at his absolute best. In a commanding 4–0 win over the Calgary Flames, he recorded 1 goal and 3 assists — his fourth career four-point game — solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive players. At just 20 years and 113 days old, Bedard became the 11th-youngest player in NHL history to reach 150 career points, joining a historic list topped by Sidney Crosby, who reached the milestone at 19 years and 130 days.

Bedard capped off the week with another standout showing in a 5–1 win over the Detroit Red Wings on November 9, notching 1 goal and 2 assists to extend his point streak to eight games, dating back to October 26. During that stretch, he has tallied 18 points (7 goals, 11 assists) — just one game shy of matching his career-best nine-game streak from last season.

These performances not only earned him NHL honors but also cemented his place among the league’s elite. Through 16 games this season, Bedard ranks third in the NHL in scoring with 25 points (9 goals, 16 assists). He also sits among the league leaders in assists (tied for 3rd with 16), even-strength points (tied for 4th with 17), and even-strength assists (5th with 11).

A star who keeps shining brighter for Chicago

Ever since being drafted No. 1 overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, Connor Bedard has lived up to every ounce of the hype surrounding him. As the 2023–24 Calder Memorial Trophy winner, he’s become the face of the Chicago Blackhawks’ rebuild and a player capable of turning every game into a highlight reel.

His recent surge isn’t just about points — it’s about leadership. Bedard’s ability to elevate his teammates has been one of the biggest differences for the Blackhawks this season. Whether setting up scoring chances with pinpoint passes or taking charge in key moments, his confidence has transformed Chicago’s offense into a far more dynamic unit.

The chemistry Bedard has developed with forwards like Frank Nazar and Taylor Raddysh has also been critical. Together, they’ve provided balance, creativity, and energy that keeps opponents on their heels. Chicago’s recent climb to third place in the Central Division is a reflection of that growing team cohesion — with Bedard at the heart of it all.

Off the ice, his composure and maturity continue to draw praise from coaches and veterans alike. Despite the pressure of being labeled the NHL’s next superstar, Bedard has remained focused, humble, and driven to keep improving.

The young forward’s success this season has fans dreaming about what lies ahead. If his current form continues, Bedard could find himself not just in the weekly stars conversation but also in the Hart Trophy race before the season’s end.

The future looks bright

With Connor Bedard leading the charge, the Chicago Blackhawks are showing clear signs of growth and stability. His recognition as the Second Star of the Week is another milestone in what’s shaping up to be a breakout season — not just for him, but for the entire franchise.

Bedard’s skill, consistency, and determination have reignited excitement in Chicago hockey, and if this week was any indication, his star is only going to shine brighter as the season unfolds.

The post Connor Bedard named NHL’s second star of the week after dominant stretch appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Connor Bedard had himself another impressive game Friday night, recording four points in the Chicago Blackhawks‘ 4-0 win in Calgary.

Bedard assisted on the first three Blackhawks goals before putting the cherry on top with a Patrick Kane-like goal late in the third period. Bedard, at the age of 20 years and 113 days, became the youngest player in the Blackhawks’ century-long history to reach 150 career points.

With that effort, Bedard enters Saturday with the second-most points in the NHL (22) behind 19-year-old San Jose Sharks phenom Macklin Celebrini’s 23.

Bedard was taken first overall in the 2023 NHL draft, and Celebrini (19) was the first taken a year later.

Let's check in on the scoring race:

1. Macklin Celebrini – 23 points
2. Connor Bedard – 22 points

The future is now. pic.twitter.com/4RFRTr7hVd

— NHL (@NHL) November 8, 2025

Blackhawks and NHL fans have been put on notice

While it’s still early in the 2025-2026 season, fans are already looking at the NHL point leaders with intrigue as two of the league’s young stars are shining brightly. Both kids were as hyped as could be coming out of their respective drafts, and fans are getting a taste of what could be.

It’s tremendous for the Blackhawks and Sharks fanbases, who have both been in the midst of grueling rebuilds. Now the fruits of their organization’s labors seem to be blossoming.

For two decades, hockey fans have watched and debated between Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, two legends whom Bedard and Celebrini have spent their entire lives following passionately. Could we be entering the next generation’s great player debate?

A Michael Jordan and LeBron James-like discussion?

While this is not to say either Bedard or Celebrini will finish their careers with quite the same numbers as Crosby or Ovechkin, they have the opportunity to be at the top of the league. This can and should be embraced by fans and media.

It can seem annoying to constantly debate two figures tirelessly.

The Michael Jordan and LeBron James debates have worn plenty of people out, and Chicago fans are currently driving themselves nuts being in the midst of comparing Caleb Williams to other young NFL quarterbacks.

One could argue this hockey discussion feels a bit different. There will always be those who try to flex their guy over the others, but this is great for the sport. There is a seemingly great amount of respect for both players.

Enough of the Bedard vs Celebrini arguments online. Both awesome. https://t.co/YEbCDTcx4m

— Tankathon.com (@tankathon) November 8, 2025

Bedard is putting the Blackhawks back on the map

Thanks to Bedard, and the contributions of others, the Blackhawks are making national headlines again (for good reasons). Even if the team does not quite keep pace with the record they have this year, there is absolutely a reason to tune into the games.

The same can be said for the Sharks, who just a few weeks ago had head coach Ryan Warsofsky talk about sacrificing one of his children for a win. Figuratively speaking, of course…

Enough of the Bedard vs Celebrini arguments online. Both awesome. https://t.co/YEbCDTcx4m

— Tankathon.com (@tankathon) November 8, 2025

This point race between Bedard and Celebrini could be really fun to follow this season. Maybe it’s not Mark McGuire vs. Sammy Sosa, but something for Blackhawks and hockey fans alike to watch with interest every night.

Hopefully, this will lead to some more sellout crowds at the United Center as the season goes on. It’s worth noting that on February 2nd, the Sharks come to Chicago to face the Blackhawks, which should draw national attention.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

The post Chicago Blackhawks fans are fired up over Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Detroit Red Wings received some encouraging news this week. Former Chicago Blackhawks veteran forward Patrick Kane was back on the ice for a whole team practice. While the 35-year-old hasn’t yet been cleared for full-contact hockey, his participation signals that he’s making substantial progress in his recovery from an upper-body injury sustained against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Kane’s return to practice has been met with optimism both inside the locker room and among fans. Even though his exact return date remains uncertain, the Red Wings are clearly eager to have their point-per-game winger back in the lineup.

Patrick Kane taking steps toward full recovery

Patrick Kane’s latest injury occurred when he crashed into the boards during a game against the Lightning, aggravating his shoulder. The incident forced him to miss time, leaving Detroit without one of its most creative offensive weapons.

After skating with the whole team during Thursday’s practice, Kane spoke about his recovery and current health status. While he stopped short of guaranteeing a specific return date, his comments suggested steady improvement.

“We’ll see,” Kane said after practice. “I’m feeling pretty good. It was nice to get back into practice with the team today. Other than that, I feel pretty good and we’ll go from there. We’ll see how it is Friday. I don’t think there’s any real decision on when I’m back or anything like that.”

Kane admitted that he wasn’t entirely sure how his shoulder would hold up through a full session, but he was pleased with how things went.

“I was pretty confident I was going to be able to get through a practice and skate with the team,” he said. “But you never know until you get into it, so I’m happy I was able to do that and participate and go the whole way.”

The Red Wings are taking a cautious approach with Kane’s recovery, a wise decision considering his injury history and importance to the lineup. For now, he’ll continue to skate and participate in non-contact drills until the medical staff clears him for game action.

Red Wings eager for their star forward’s return

Before the injury, Patrick Kane was one of Detroit’s most reliable offensive players. In just five games this season, he tallied five points (two goals, three assists), maintaining his reputation as a point-per-game performer. Kane was not only anchoring the second line at right wing but also playing a key role on the Red Wings’ first power-play unit, bringing veteran poise and creativity to their man-advantage setups.

His absence has forced Head Coach Derek Lalonde to shuffle his lines and allow younger players to step up. Forward Emmitt Finnie has been filling in for Kane on the power play, but the unit has lacked the same spark Kane provides with his elite puck control and vision.

The Red Wings have missed Kane’s ability to slow the game down and create scoring chances out of tight spaces—skills that make him one of the most respected offensive minds in hockey. His chemistry with linemates and knack for producing in clutch moments have been crucial to Detroit’s offense.

While Kane’s immediate focus is on regaining strength and mobility in his shoulder, his eventual return could help re-energize the team. Detroit has been competitive in the early part of the season, but has struggled at times to convert scoring chances. Kane’s return will not only boost their offensive output but also add leadership and confidence to the locker room.

Given his veteran presence and proven track record, Kane’s reintegration into the lineup could be the difference between Detroit hovering around the playoff bubble and pushing firmly into contention.

What comes next for Patrick Kane

As of now, there’s no set timeline for Patrick Kane’s return, but signs point to steady progress. He’ll likely need a few more practices before doctors clear him for complete contact and game action. The Red Wings are expected to monitor his shoulder while gradually ramping up his workload closely.

Once he’s back, fans can expect Kane to resume his familiar role, driving offense on the second line and serving as a power-play catalyst. Given how effective he was before the injury, there’s little doubt that his return will give Detroit’s attack a significant lift.

For now, the Red Wings and fans will have to wait a bit longer. But one thing is sure: when Patrick Kane finally rejoins the lineup, Detroit’s offense will look far more dangerous, and their playoff hopes a lot brighter.

The post Former Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane nearing comeback appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks will look to bounce back from a two-game losing streak when they face the Seattle Kraken on Monday night. However, their challenge just got tougher with forward Jason Dickinson expected to miss the matchup due to injury. The Blackhawks have dropped back-to-back games against the Winnipeg Jets and Edmonton Oilers, the latter in a tight overtime battle, and now they’ll have to regroup without one of their veteran presences on the ice.

Dickinson’s absence was confirmed when he was missing from Sunday’s team practice at Climate Pledge Arena. It’s another unfortunate setback for the experienced forward, who has struggled with recurring injuries throughout his career.

Jason Dickinson’s recurring injury woes

Jason Dickinson’s latest injury has once again brought his durability into question. The forward left Thursday’s game against the Winnipeg Jets early, re-aggravating a previous injury that had already sidelined him earlier in the year against the Boston Bruins.

This isn’t the first time Dickinson has faced long-term health setbacks. Last season, a wrist injury cut his campaign short, preventing him from finishing the year with the team. These repeated injuries have raised concerns about how much his body can handle, especially as the Chicago Blackhawks continue to rely on his veteran leadership during their rebuilding phase.

So far this season, Dickinson has played only five games, registering three points (one goal and two assists). While those numbers are decent considering the limited time he’s been on the ice, his inconsistency in availability makes it difficult for the team to find stability in their forward lines.

With head coach Jeff Blashill focusing on building chemistry among younger players like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, Dickinson’s absence disrupts the team’s balance. His experience and defensive responsibility at center have been key in helping stabilize Chicago’s middle six, and losing him again creates another hole that will need to be filled, likely by a younger player stepping into a bigger role.

A look back at Dickinson’s career and value

Drafted 29th overall by the Dallas Stars in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, Jason Dickinson was once seen as a promising two-way forward with a blend of speed, grit, and playmaking ability. He spent his early career developing in Dallas before being traded to the Vancouver Canucks in 2021.

His time in Vancouver was short-lived, as the Chicago Blackhawks acquired him shortly after, where he found a more comfortable role. Over the past three seasons in Chicago, Dickinson has become a steady veteran presence, a player capable of playing in any situation, whether on the power play, penalty kill, or late defensive shifts.

Now in the final year of his current contract with an average annual value of $4.25 million, Dickinson’s future in Chicago remains uncertain. In total, he’s accumulated 158 career points (69 goals and 89 assists) over 510 NHL games, numbers that reflect his consistency when healthy but also highlight how much time he’s missed due to injuries.

As the Blackhawks continue their rebuilding process, decisions about keeping or moving veterans like Dickinson will be key to shaping the roster around their young stars. His leadership and experience are valuable, but the constant injury setbacks make it difficult to rely on him as a long-term piece.

The Chicago Blackhawks will need to find ways to stay competitive without him for now. The upcoming matchup against the Seattle Kraken provides an opportunity for younger players to step up and prove themselves in the lineup. Meanwhile, the organization will be keeping a close eye on Dickinson’s recovery and, perhaps more importantly, his long-term durability moving forward.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have been searching for young stars to lead their next era, and it seems they’ve found one in Frank Nazar. While Connor Bedard continues to dominate headlines, Nazar is quietly, and sometimes loudly, making a name for himself as one of Chicago’s most exciting young players. From his speed and skill to his fiery celebrations during scrums and brawls, Nazar is becoming a fan favorite at the United Center.

But beneath the energy and personality, there’s a lot of substance to his game. Nazar isn’t just a sparkplug; he’s proving that he belongs among the league’s most promising young forwards.

Frank Nazar: A rising star with skill and swagger

If you’ve watched the Chicago Blackhawks this season, you’ve likely noticed Frank Nazar’s contagious energy. Whether he’s scoring goals, breaking into the zone with speed, or celebrating after a heated scrum, he brings life to every shift he plays. His antics have made him a social media highlight reel, but his numbers show he’s much more than just entertainment.

Through the early part of the season, Nazar has four goals and nine points, an impressive total for a young player still adjusting to full-time NHL play. He’s using his speed and agility to create chances both for himself and his linemates, especially when he’s skating away from Connor Bedard’s line and drawing easier matchups. That separation has allowed him to drive play independently, giving Chicago multiple offensive threats.

What’s even more impressive is his improvement in areas that typically challenge young forwards. Nazar’s face-off win percentage has been inconsistent at times, but there have been several games where he’s performed well in the circle. He’s learning the nuances of timing, leverage, and positioning, lessons that will pay off as he gains more experience.

And while offense comes naturally to him, Nazar’s defensive game is equally commendable. For a player with a scoring-first reputation, his backchecking and awareness have stood out. He’s trusted in all situations, from even strength to penalty killing to overtime and shootouts. When the game is on the line, you can expect to see Nazar on the ice.

The Bedard-Nazar era and the Blackhawks’ identity

Before the 2025–26 season began, fans and analysts predicted that Frank Nazar would be the second young superstar to rise alongside Connor Bedard, and so far, he’s meeting those expectations. The chemistry between the two symbolizes the future of the franchise: fast, competitive, and fearless.

Head coach Jeff Blashill has been clear about the kind of hockey he wants his team to play, aggressive, high-tempo, and focused on puck possession. He emphasizes players who compete relentlessly, drive play, and aren’t afraid to battle for every inch of ice. Nazar fits that vision perfectly.

Blashill’s system depends heavily on winning face-offs, something that remains a team-wide issue. As he explained, controlling the puck after a draw means faster setups in the offensive zone and quick clears in the defensive zone. With puck-moving defensemen like Kevin Korchinski and Alex Vlasic, winning draws becomes even more valuable for setting up breakout plays. Nazar, along with other centers, is expected to improve in this area, a natural step in his development.

Beyond strategy, Blashill values players who “compete like their lives depend on it.” Nazar embodies that philosophy. He plays fast, battles hard, and doesn’t back down, even in scrums. His now-viral moments from the St. Louis game may have drawn laughs across the league, but they also showcased his passion and willingness to stand up for his teammates, even if playfully.

In a team still shaping its identity, that attitude matters. The Chicago Blackhawks are rebuilding not just with skill, but with character, and Nazar’s confidence and edge are helping define what this young roster represents.

The future is fast and fearless

Frank Nazar’s early success is giving Chicago fans something to believe in. His blend of skill, energy, and emotion makes him a perfect fit for the next generation of Blackhawks hockey. That generation will be built on fast-paced, competitive, and entertaining.

As he continues to mature, Nazar will refine the small details, especially face-offs. That could help him become one of the NHL’s most complete young centers. His electric play and crowd-energizing celebrations are more than enough to make him a must-watch every time the puck drops.

The Blackhawks may still be building, but with players like Frank Nazar and Connor Bedard, the foundation looks stronger.

The post Frank Nazar emerging as the Chicago Blackhawks’ next big star appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks continued to build momentum in the early stages of the 2025–26 NHL season with a convincing 7–3 victory over the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night at the United Center. Led by Connor Bedard’s first career NHL hat trick, Chicago showcased the chemistry of its young core and reminded fans that the rebuilding phase might finally be nearing its end.

With the win, the Blackhawks improved to 5-3-2 on the season and climbed to eighth place in the Western Conference. The victory also marked their third win in the past four games, a clear sign that the team is beginning to find consistency.

Connor Bedard’s hat trick leads the charge

Connor Bedard has been at the center of the Blackhawks’ resurgence since the season began, and Tuesday night was another shining example of why he’s considered one of the NHL’s brightest young stars. The 20-year-old forward recorded his first career NHL hat trick in front of a roaring home crowd, pushing Chicago to victory after a tense middle frame.

Chicago jumped out to a 4–0 lead early in the second period, but the Senators clawed back with three unanswered goals to make it a one-goal game. Just when it seemed like momentum was shifting toward Ottawa, Bedard stepped up once again. Early in the third period, he found the back of the net for the third time of the night, restoring Chicago’s two-goal cushion and sealing the game’s turning point.

The hat trick came in Bedard’s 160th career NHL game, marking not only a personal milestone but also a historic moment in Blackhawks history. He became just the seventh player in franchise history to score 50 goals before turning 21, joining an elite list of names that includes legends like Patrick Kane and Jeremy Roenick.

Following the game, Bedard reflected on the emotional moment and the fan support that made it even more special.
“I think our whole team celebrates each other in moments like that,” Bedard said. “And then, kind of the fans’ reaction was awesome. We have so much support. Obviously, you want to get a hatty anywhere, but to get one at home is nice. That support is unbelievable.”

The home crowd showered the ice with hats after his third goal, which was a memorable moment for both Bedard and Blackhawks fans, who have waited for glimpses of their team’s future to shine this brightly.

Young core driving Chicago Blackhawks’ rebuild

It’s not just Connor Bedard making noise in Chicago. The Blackhawks’ youthful core is finally starting to gel, giving the franchise hope for a new era of success. Frank Nazar, another rising forward, has developed strong on-ice chemistry with Bedard, and the duo has been electric through the first 10 games of the season, combining for 23 points.

Head coach Jeff Blashill has emphasized patience and development throughout the rebuilding process, and it’s paying off. The team’s offensive production is becoming more balanced, and their ability to recover from defensive lapses — such as Ottawa’s three-goal surge in the second period, shows maturity beyond their years.

Bedard acknowledged that the ups and downs are part of the journey for both him and the team. “Look at (the game against) Anaheim, I don’t know how many shots I had, probably 10 or something, none goes in,” Bedard said. “Tonight, it’s every one. That’s how hockey is. Sometimes it’s going in, sometimes it’s not. I think for me kind of trying (to) stick with it, keep shooting, not get too high, not get too low. That’s our whole group. It’s nice to see them go in for sure, but you’re going to have ups and downs.”

That mindset, staying even-keeled through the highs and lows, is what separates great players from good ones. Bedard’s growth in both his skill and mentality is becoming increasingly evident, and his leadership is rubbing off on the rest of the young Blackhawks roster.

Looking ahead and building on the momentum

After their impressive win, the Chicago Blackhawks now embark on a challenging six-game road trip beginning Thursday in Winnipeg against the Jets. The trip will be an important test of their early-season chemistry and resilience.

With Bedard leading the offense and young players like Nazar stepping up, the Blackhawks are beginning to look like a team capable of competing every night. Their rebuilding journey is far from over, but the signs of progress are undeniable.

As the 2025–26 season continues, one thing is clear, Connor Bedard is not only the face of the franchise but also the spark driving Chicago’s return to relevance. His hat trick against Ottawa wasn’t just a personal achievement, it was a glimpse into a promising future for the Blackhawks and their fans.

The post Connor Bedard on his first NHL hat trick: “support is unbelievable” appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks are off to a hot start this season and after Tuesday’s 7-3 win over the Ottawa Senators, they are now 5-3-2 and are one of the early exciting stories. Blackhawks hockey is fun again and at the center of it is Connor Bedard.

The former No. 1 overall pick is playing well and finally has help in the form of some other young talent. But on Tuesday, Bedard had a career night and recorded his first hat trick.

Connor Bedard dazzles with hat trick vs. Senators

While Connor Bedard is off to a hot start, his best career game came on Tuesday night. He finished with three goals and an assist in the win. He scored his first goal on a power play in the first period to give the Blackhawks a 3-0 lead. His second came early in the second period to extend that lead to 4-0.

But the hat trick came at the perfect time.

After the Senators scored three unanswered to cut the lead to 4-3, Bedard found the net again to give the Blackhawks some breathing room. And the hats came down from the United Center stands:

HATS OFF TO CONNOR BEDARD pic.twitter.com/FDaDh048Nq

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

Bedard scored all three goals against Linus Ullmark, the same goalie he scored his first-career goal against in his rookie season.

It’s Bedard’s third game with at least four points this season as the 20-year-old is starting to showcase that elite talent. Now, the Blackhawks goal is to keep this momentum going as they embark on a six-game road trip beginning on Thursday at Winnipeg.

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The Chicago Blackhawks five-game point streak came to an end Sunday night with a 3-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings at the United Center. Despite a strong start and an early lead, the Blackhawks couldn’t maintain their rhythm against the Kings’ structured defense, something that rookie sensation Connor Bedard admitted was difficult to overcome.

Connor Bedard gives the Blackhawks an early lead

Connor Bedard continued his impressive start to the 2025 NHL season by scoring Chicago’s only goal of the night. The 20-year-old forward struck in the first period, giving the Blackhawks a 1-0 advantage that carried through the opening frame.

It was a promising start for Chicago, which looked sharp in the early minutes. The Blackhawks controlled the puck well and created chances off the rush. Bedard’s goal, his third of the season, showcased his elite puck-handling and finishing touch, a glimpse of why he’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about young players in the league.

But that energy began to fade as the game went on. The Kings tightened their defensive structure, forcing Chicago to dump the puck more often than they wanted. Despite outshooting Los Angeles in parts of the first two periods, the Blackhawks couldn’t find another way past Kings goaltender Cam Talbot.

In the second period, the Kings began to push back. While Chicago’s defense held firm for a while, its inability to capitalize on power plays started to hurt it. The Blackhawks went 0-for-5 with the man advantage, a stat that clearly frustrated Bedard after the game.

“Our power play was terrible tonight, so that didn’t help,” Bedard said candidly. “It takes the momentum out a little bit, and they used that. In the second, we were trying to do too much sometimes, maybe. They fed off that, and we couldn’t get it back in the third.”

King’s defense shuts down Chicago in the third period

The turning point came in the final period. Early in the third, Los Angeles struck twice in quick succession. Alex Laferriere tied the game, and just minutes later, Kevin Fiala gave the Kings a 2-1 lead. From there, the Kings slowed the game down, executing their defensive system to perfection.

Late in the third, with the Blackhawks pressing for the equalizer, Joel Armia sealed the win with an empty-net goal to make it 3-1.

After the game, Connor Bedard didn’t shy away from calling out how challenging the Kings’ style of play was to deal with. “Yeah, I think on a team like that, it’s just figuring out how to create offense,” Bedard said. “They play really boring. Like, I mean, it’s not a dig or anything. They sit back a lot and make it hard to get zone entries. We’re putting it in and trying to go get it, but they’re good at breaking it out.”

He acknowledged that teams often adopt that kind of defensive approach when they have the lead, something the young forward knows the Blackhawks need to learn to counter. “A lot of teams are going to play like that, especially when they have a lead, so we’ve got to figure out how to crack that a little bit,” Bedard added.

Connor Bedard’s bright start amid team struggles

Despite the loss, Bedard’s performance continues to be one of the brightest spots for Chicago. Through nine games, he has three goals and eight points, ranking second on the team in scoring behind Frank Nazar. His ability to create offense even in tough matchups shows maturity beyond his years.

However, the team as a whole still has work to do, particularly on special teams. Going 0-for-5 on the power play was a major setback, and the lack of execution in key moments cost them momentum.

The Blackhawks now sit at 4-3-2, placing them fifth in the Central Division. It’s still early in the season, but consistency will be key if they hope to stay competitive in the standings.

The next test comes on Tuesday when the Chicago Blackhawks face the Ottawa Senators. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:45 p.m. ET.

For Bedard and the Blackhawks, the goal will be simple, turn lessons from this loss into progress. If their young star continues to shine and the team finds ways to convert on their chances, Chicago could bounce back quickly.

The post Connor Bedard reflects on Blackhawks’ 3-1 loss to the Kings: “they play really boring” appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Blackhawks may have fallen short against the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday night, but one of the biggest storylines from the game wasn’t the score; it was Ilya Mikheyev’s injury scare. The speedy winger left the ice early in the third period after a hard collision into the boards while killing a penalty. Though head coach Jeff Blashill listed him as day-to-day after the game, the sight of Mikheyev walking out of the United Center without any visible bandages or a sling was a reassuring sign.

That’s good news for Chicago, because Ilya Mikheyev isn’t just another player. He’s quietly become one of the most valuable defensive wingers in the entire NHL, and his absence would be a major blow to a Blackhawks team that’s finally starting to find its rhythm early in the 2025 season.

 Ilya Mikheyev’s speed and defensive value

When Mikheyev is on the ice, his speed and defensive instincts change the way the Chicago Blackhawks play. According to NHL EDGE stats, through last Thursday’s game in Tampa, Mikheyev’s 27 recorded speed bursts between 20 and 22 mph rank him in the 95th percentile across the NHL. That kind of skating speed makes him a constant threat, both offensively and defensively.

It wasn’t always this way. During his injury-filled seasons with the Vancouver Canucks, Mikheyev struggled to find his form after tearing his ACL in January 2023. That injury not only sidelined him for months but also affected his confidence and stride on the ice. Vancouver eventually traded him, along with a 2027 second-round pick, to the Blackhawks in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. The move turned out to be a huge win for Chicago, especially with Vancouver retaining 15 percent of his salary.

By the 2024–25 season, Mikheyev had rediscovered his legs and his confidence. He scored 20 goals and tallied 34 points, the best season of his NHL career, and even received a Selke Trophy vote, an award traditionally dominated by centers like Patrice Bergeron and Anze Kopitar. For a winger to be recognized as one of the league’s best defensive forwards is rare, and that single vote spoke volumes about the respect Mikheyev earned among coaches and analysts.

The Blackhawks’ penalty kill weapon

Through Sunday’s game against the Kings, the Chicago Blackhawks have spent over an hour (60:39) on the penalty kill across nine games, and Mikheyev has been on the ice for more than 60 percent of that time (36:30). That’s a staggering number for a forward. The next closest Blackhawks forward, Teuvo Teräväinen, has logged 21:43 short-handed.

Mikheyev’s 4:03 of short-handed ice time per game leads all NHL forwards by nearly 30 seconds more than the next player. His total short-handed time on ice also leads the entire league, proving just how much faith the coaching staff has in his defensive play.

But Mikheyev doesn’t just defend; he creates chances even when down a man. According to NHL.com, he’s generated six short-handed shot attempts and three shots on goal, ranking him third in the NHL for short-handed offense behind Calgary’s Blake Coleman and Montreal’s Jake Evans. That ability to flip the script and attack while defending is what makes him so special.

Thanks in large part to Mikheyev’s defensive impact, the Blackhawks’ penalty kill currently ranks 10th in the NHL at 85 percent. Opponents have scored six power-play goals against Chicago, but only half of those have come while Mikheyev was on the ice, a testament to how effective he is in shutting down top power-play units.

At even strength, his numbers are just as impressive. Among players with at least eight games played, Mikheyev’s on-ice goals-for percentage (85.7%) ranks fourth in the NHL, showing how dominant the Blackhawks are when he’s out there.

The unsung hero Chicago needed

In many ways, Mikheyev represents exactly what the Chicago Blackhawks need as they transition from rebuilding to competing. His defensive reliability gives the team structure. His speed provides energy on the forecheck and penalty kill. And his experience offers stability to a lineup featuring young stars like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar.

If Mikheyev’s injury truly is minor, Chicago fans can breathe easy. His presence has allowed the coaching staff to balance ice time more effectively, freeing up offensive players to focus on generating chances while Mikheyev anchors the defensive side.

Simply put, Mikheyev has become the Blackhawks’ silent MVP early in the season. If he continues to play at this level and stays healthy, there’s a real chance he could earn far more than a single Selke vote this year.

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The Chicago Blackhawks are back in action on Thursday night as they take on the Tampa Bay Lightning, with a familiar storyline leading into the matchup. Head coach Jeff Blashill will face his former boss, Jon Cooper, for the first time since taking over behind the Blackhawks’ bench, marking a full-circle moment for the 50-year-old coach.

Chicago hit the ice for practice in Tampa on Wednesday, hoping to continue their strong early-season form. The team has won three of its last four games and will look to keep the momentum going, even as a few lineup questions hang in the air.

Jeff Blashill reflects on his time with Jon Cooper and the Tampa Bay Lightning

Before joining the Chicago Blackhawks, Jeff Blashill spent three seasons as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning under Jon Cooper, one of the NHL’s most respected bench bosses. The reunion brings a bit of nostalgia, but Blashill made it clear that the focus remains on helping his young Blackhawks continue their steady climb.

When asked what he learned from his time working with Cooper, Blashill smiled and offered a lighthearted response.

“Nothing,” he joked, before adding, “I’ve learned a lot from him over the years. When you get into a setting like they have [in Tampa Bay], you get a chance not just to learn from Cooper, but from the great coaching staff that he has and the great players on the team. Cooper does a really good job of delegating and utilizing his staff… that allowed him to focus on what’s most important, the relationships and communication with the players.”

Blashill went on to describe how that philosophy has shaped his approach in Chicago.

“Our No. 1 job is to get the most out of our players, and the way to do that ultimately is to build relationships, hold them accountable, and be in the fight with them,” he said. “I think Cooper does that as well as anyone in the league.”

The matchup will undoubtedly hold some personal meaning for Blashill, who is still seeking his first win behind the Blackhawks’ bench against his former team. A win in Tampa Bay would not only mark an important personal milestone but would also give the Hawks four wins in their last five games, a strong statement from a team that many doubted entering the season.

Chicago Blackhawks shuffle lineup ahead of lightning clash

While Blashill’s return to Tampa Bay provides a compelling narrative, the Chicago Blackhawks are also navigating a few lineup challenges heading into Thursday’s matchup.

Jason Dickinson, who has been dealing with a lingering injury, participated in some practice drills but won’t be ready to play against the Lightning.

“I don’t expect Dickinson tomorrow,” Blashill confirmed. “I would anticipate that Sunday [against Los Angeles] would be a better opportunity for him. We’ll take it day to day.”

Meanwhile, forward Andre Burakovsky missed practice on Wednesday, but for a heartwarming reason. The 30-year-old veteran and his wife, Johanna, welcomed their second child, a baby girl named Lily, earlier this week. Burakovsky’s status for Thursday’s game remains uncertain, and it’s unclear whether he’ll rejoin the team in Florida.

If Burakovsky remains unavailable, Lukas Reichel will step into his spot on the top line alongside Connor Bedard and Tyler Bertuzzi. Reichel skated with that group during Wednesday’s practice and previously found chemistry with Bedard in the Blackhawks’ 8–3 win over St. Louis last week, where he recorded a goal and an assist.

Elsewhere in the lineup, Colton Dach, Ryan Greene, and Ryan Donato are expected to remain together as the third line after a strong showing against the Anaheim Ducks. The second line of Teuvo Teravainen, Frank Nazar, and Ilya Mikheyev will also stay intact, continuing to provide energy and offensive depth.

One of the most uplifting stories in the Blackhawks’ locker room is the return of captain Nick Foligno, who missed three games due to a family health matter. Foligno’s 12-year-old daughter recently underwent a follow-up heart surgery but is now home and recovering well. His presence, both emotional and physical, has been a huge boost for the team.

“It’s great to have him back,” Blashill said earlier this week. “He’s our leader, and you always want that presence in your locker room. He brings energy, and we’re happy everything went well for his family.”

The Blackhawks are likely to continue rolling with an 11-forward, seven-defenseman lineup, something Blashill has favored in recent games. Landon Slaggert is expected to remain as the extra forward, while Sam Lafferty will once again be a healthy scratch.

Chicago Blackhawks eye another win in a tough road test

As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare to face the Lightning at Amalie Arena, they’ll be aiming for their fourth win in five games, a sign that this young team is starting to find its rhythm.

Even with key players missing, the Blackhawks have shown fight, structure, and confidence under Blashill’s leadership. A victory in Tampa Bay would not only strengthen their early-season momentum but also serve as a symbolic triumph for their coach, who now returns to the city where he once helped build a championship culture.

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The Chicago Blackhawks have started the new NHL season with more promise than many expected. While the team is still officially in a rebuild, their early performance and steady improvement have given fans real reasons to believe that the turnaround might come sooner than anticipated.

A huge part of that optimism comes from the man running the show, general manager Kyle Davidson. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the organization appears ready to reward Davidson for his impressive work since taking over the reins.

Elliotte Friedman hints at a possible Kyle Davidson extension

During the latest episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Friedman revealed that the Chicago Blackhawks could soon announce a contract extension for their GM.

“It seems to me like we’re heading in the direction of a Kyle Davidson extension,” Friedman said.

If true, it would be well-deserved recognition for the young executive who has quietly reshaped the franchise’s future.

Davidson, who took over in 2022, has managed the difficult task of tearing down and rebuilding a roster while maintaining direction, patience, and vision. His draft record alone speaks volumes, striking gold with top prospects and identifying hidden gems in later rounds.

Over the past four years, Davidson has drafted Kevin Korchinski, Frank Nazar, Sam Rinzel, Connor Bedard, Oliver Moore, Artyom Levshunov, Sasha Boisvert, Marek Vanacker, Anton Frondell, Vaclav Nestrasil, and Mason West in the first round. That’s a group loaded with potential, and several have already begun making an impact at the NHL level.

But what makes Davidson’s work stand out is how he’s also found success beyond the first round. Players like Ryan Greene, Roman Kantserov, Nick Lardis, and AJ Spellacy have emerged as promising prospects, the kind of late-round steals that separate good general managers from great ones.

Davidson’s draft classes have been built around skill, skating, and hockey IQ, traits that reflect the modern game. And now, as these young players start to find their footing, the Blackhawks’ future looks brighter than ever.

Davidson’s move has quietly made the Chicago Blackhawks Better

While the rebuild has been methodical, Davidson has also shown a sharp eye for talent at the NHL level. He’s made several smart, calculated moves over the past year to accelerate the team’s progress without sacrificing long-term stability.

Key offseason acquisitions like Andre Burakovsky, Ilya Mikheyev, Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen, and goaltender Spencer Knight have already paid dividends. These players bring experience, skill, and leadership to a locker room dominated by young stars such as Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar.

Crucially, Davidson has also held on to talented players like Lukas Reichel, showing patience rather than rushing into trades that could hurt the team’s future. It’s a delicate balance, adding veterans to help guide the youth while still keeping the organization’s eyes firmly on long-term success, and Davidson has managed it exceptionally well.

“Rebuilding takes time and the right moves at the right time,” one league executive said about the Blackhawks’ approach. “Davidson has done an excellent job of building this team the right way.”

The Chicago Blackhawks are far from finished, but there’s no denying that the franchise is trending in the right direction. The roster is deeper, more talented, and more balanced than at any point in the past several seasons.

A promising future for the Chicago Blackhawks

Rebuilding an NHL team isn’t easy. It takes patience, foresight, and the courage to make difficult decisions. In just a few short years, Kyle Davidson has demonstrated that he possesses all three qualities.

Suppose Friedman’s report proves accurate and Davidson does receive an extension. In that case, it will be a well-earned vote of confidence from the Chicago Blackhawks ownership group, one that ensures the man responsible for rebuilding this proud franchise remains in charge of its future.

With Bedard, Nazar, Korchinski, and Levshunov leading the next generation, and veterans like Burakovsky and Teravainen providing mentorship, the Blackhawks are slowly transforming from a rebuilding team into one on the rise.

At this pace, it might not be long before playoff hockey returns to Chicago, and when it does, Kyle Davidson’s fingerprints will be all over it.

The post Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson reportedly nearing extension appeared first on ChiCitySports.

After missing three games due to a personal family matter, Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno returned to practice at Fifth Third Arena on Monday morning, bringing a wave of relief and positivity to both teammates and fans.

The 37-year-old veteran had taken a brief leave of absence last week as his 12-year-old daughter, Milana, underwent a follow-up surgery related to her congenital heart disease. On Monday, Foligno shared an uplifting update, Milana is back home and recovering well.

Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno shares heartfelt update on daughter

When Nick Foligno met the media after his first practice back, his words reflected both gratitude and admiration for his daughter’s strength.

“I’m happy to report that Milana’s home now and doing well,” Foligno said. “She’s probably the one who gives us the most strength with the way she’s handled this adversity. It’s impressive for a 12-year-old girl to handle it face-on.”

The Chicago Blackhawks captain has always been known for his leadership and composure, but this moment showed the depth of his humanity. Foligno’s willingness to share his family’s journey, and his appreciation for the support from the hockey community, reminded everyone that behind every player is a person navigating life’s real challenges.

The Blackhawks organization, players, and fans stood behind their captain during his absence, sending well wishes to Milana and the Foligno family. Head coach Jeff Blashill echoed that sentiment after Monday’s session.

“Great to have him back,” Blashill said. “He’s our leader, so you want that presence in your locker room, and I think he brings good energy. It was great to have him back and great that, considering the situation, everything went really good. We’re all happy for his family.”

Foligno’s return comes at an important time for Chicago as they look to find their rhythm early in the 2025–26 NHL season. His leadership, both emotional and professional, is a cornerstone of this young team’s identity.

Chicago Blackhawks value Nick Foligno’s leadership on and off the ice

Named the 36th captain in Chicago Blackhawks history on September 18, 2024, Nick Foligno became the first player to wear the “C” since Jonathan Toews. It was a well-deserved honor, not just for his lengthy resume of over 1,200 NHL games, but for the respect he commands across the league and inside the locker room.

Foligno’s leadership extends far beyond game nights. This past summer, he invited several young Blackhawks, including Frank Nazar, Wyatt Kaiser, and Colton Dach, to his hometown of Sudbury, Ontario, for a week of training and team bonding. The gesture gave Chicago’s next generation a chance to learn firsthand from their captain about professionalism, balance, and team unity.

His influence has already been evident this season. In the first four games, Foligno has registered two assists, anchoring the fourth line and providing much-needed energy and structure. His presence in the locker room, particularly for younger players like Connor Bedard and Nazar, has helped stabilize a team still finding its identity.

“He’s been such a steadying force,” one teammate shared. “When things get tough, he’s the first to speak up, but also the first to listen. You can tell he really cares.”

As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare for their next game, a Thursday night matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the expectation is that Foligno will be ready to return to the lineup. Even if he isn’t immediately back on the ice, having him around the team again provides an emotional lift.

For a franchise in transition, leaders like Foligno are invaluable. He’s not only mentoring a roster full of young stars but also embodying what it means to face adversity with grace and resilience, both as a player and as a father.

Chicago Blackhawks Look Ahead with Their Captain Back

The Chicago Blackhawks may still be early in their rebuild, but having Nick Foligno back marks more than just the return of a player, it’s the return of their emotional heartbeat. His story this past week is a reminder that strength doesn’t just come from athleticism or skill; it also comes from family, compassion, and perspective.

With Milana’s recovery going well and her father back doing what he loves, the Foligno family’s journey is one of courage and hope, qualities that mirror the very spirit of the team he leads.

As Chicago prepares to face Tampa Bay, there’s a renewed sense of gratitude and unity in the locker room, and that’s something no stat line can measure.

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The Chicago Blackhawks sit third in the Central Division early this season, with a 3-2-2 record and eight points.

The Blackhawks’ latest win against the Anaheim Ducks can be attributed to their goalie, Spencer Knight. Knight is proving to be a core player for the Hawks and someone who can be counted on to block any shot.

More News: Chicago Blackhawks irate after controversial call leads to 3-2 loss

Spencer Knight has been on fire for the Chicago Blackhawks

Knight has been money between the posts to start this season for the Blackhawks, having a save percentage of .937% and a 1.96 goals-against average, per Bleacher Report Open Ice. This is an improvement from last season, where Knight allowed 3.18 GAA and had a .896% save percentage in 15 games, after he was traded over from the Stanley Cup Winners, the Florida Panthers.

His 1.96 GAA is eighth in the NHL, while his .937% save percentage puts him in the top five.

Spencer Knight in his first 5 games this season:

.937 SV%
1.96 GAA

Blackhawks might have their guy pic.twitter.com/2o5uBzgWn5

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 20, 2025

Spencer Knight looks like the future goaltender for the Blackhawks

Signed through the 2029 season and only 24 years old, Knight has a bright future ahead of him with the Blackhawks, as he, and Conner Bedard are forming a nucleus of a future contender for the Stanley Cup.

Coming off a solid 2-1 overtime win against the Ducks, where Knight made 38 saves, with the only goal coming on a power-play with 35.8 seconds left in the third period, the Blackhawks are in a good position moving forward when they play the Tampa Bay Lightning, who are riding a three-game losing streak.

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The Chicago Blackhawks entered Friday night’s contest against the Vancouver Canucks with momentum from a two-game winning streak. However, the Blackhawks were unable to keep that streak going with a 3-2 loss in the fourth round of a shootout to the Canucks in front of 18,306 fans at the United Center.

More News: Blackhawks Stanley Cup champion explains exciting post-retirement career

The Blackhawks raced out to a 2-0 lead in the first period via goals from Ryan Donato and Tyler Bertuzzi. But Vancouver tied it up in the second period, and the third period saw no goals from either team.

Chicago received an unfortunate call in the third period, when a go-ahead goal by Bertuzzi with 5:12 remaining was taken away for goalie interference.

A controversial call against the Chicago Blackhawks

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Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill challenged the controversial call, but it was upheld.

In a 2-2 game with 5 minutes to go this play was called no goal for goalie interference. pic.twitter.com/BevERr05tj

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 18, 2025

Followig the game, Bertuzzi voiced his frustration with the call.

“I won’t comment because I’ll probably get fined,” Bertuzzi said, via The Athletic. “I think it was not that great of a call. That’s what I think.”

Blashill told the media after the game he’d challenge the play again, and was waiting for an explanation from the NHL.

“I haven’t gotten an explanation yet as for why it wasn’t overturned, so maybe when I hear that, it’ll change my mind,” Blashill said. “When you look to the league, if you don’t push the goalie’s pad in, it’s generally a goal. I’m not sure, but I’ll wait to hear.

“I’ll have to call someone there and get an explanation. I never heard any reason why, so it’s hard for me to comment beyond that. But I was challenging it 100 percent and I’d challenge it again tomorrow.”

The loss dropped the Blackhawks to 2-2-2. Chicago will next host the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday night.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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Former Chicago Blackhawks left wing Daniel Carcillo went out with a bang, ending his NHL career by winning his second Stanley Cup in 2015.

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Carcillo was nicknamed “Car Bomb” for his aggressive style of play on the ice. He’s continued to stay aggressive with his new career after leaving the ice.

Carcillo retired in 2015 after he was diagnosed with his seventh concussion. He spent nearly $500,000 of his own money to seek help with recovery related to the repeated brain injury using traditional methods. After reading a study from Imperial College London, he saw that treatments with psilocybin and magic mushrooms helped some patients.

Daniel Carcillo on Experience Onward

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“I thought that could work for me,” Carcillo told ChiCitySports. “And I took some diagnostics before I left–brain scans, QEEG, and took some blood work. And then six months later, went back to the same neurologist to retest my brain and blood, and obviously, I felt better.

“I wanted to kind of confirm, and they couldn’t find any abnormalities in my brain.”

Carcillo wanted to help other people dealing with brain abnormalities find solutions, leading him to start Experience Onward, a licensed psilocybin treatment center based in Oregon that is focused on brain health and recovery.

Helping veterans

Carcillo has helped professional athletes recover, but the work at Experience Onward helps people in many other situations, including veterans.

“A lot of veterans suffer from concussion and these other types of, like spiritual maladies, these kind of, self-limiting beliefs of themselves, and obviously trauma that they’ve been through, right?” Carcillo said. “And you know, being a professional athlete is difficult, right?

“Like you’re, you’re revving at a certain RPM for a really long time, and eventually you just, you crash.

“And so executives do really, really well with this type of treatment–first responders. And then, even curious beginners, people that are trying to expand their consciousness and gain a deeper connection to life.”

Carcillo said his goal is to help people find the root cause of their issues.

“You obviously have people looking to, like me, kind of get off of the numbing of the managing of daily symptoms, and really just try to get to the root cause of some of their issues,” he said. “And I’m a big believer, I’m in the camp of like, nobody’s born an addict, nobody’s born depressed.

“These are learned behaviors, and if they’re learned, then we can unlearn them. And this medicine does a really nice job of showing us and helping us overcome these types of diagnoses.”

Transitioning to life after the Chicago Blackhawks

Carcillo, like a lot of former professional athletes, had a hard time transitioning from being an athlete to normal civilian life. His experiences at Experience Onward have helped him find a purpose, something he struggled to find after retiring from the Blackhawks.

Looking back, Carcillo is thankful for the opportunity to play in Chicago on a team that won two championships in three seasons. He noted that it takes a special group of players to get through the grind of multiple appearances in the NHL playoffs.

“It was really special, like when I look back on my time to be in that room and to be considered good enough to add and be a supporting role, and everybody just pulling on that rope,” he said.” So it’s definitely special. It’s really, really hard to do, but it’s possible with a really good core group of guys.”

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The swagger was back. When Connor Bedard walked into a small conference room at the Waldorf Astoria during the NHL Player Media Tour in Las Vegas, you could feel it, a sense that something big was coming. The 20-year-old Chicago Blackhawks forward, fresh off a challenging sophomore season, seemed relaxed, confident, and ready to prove that his breakout year is just around the corner.

Bedard joked with reporters about running the team’s fantasy football league, teased teammate Frank Nazar, and carried himself like someone who had finally found balance between expectation and enjoyment. The “generational talent” label hasn’t been easy to live up to, but Bedard seems to be embracing both the challenge and the journey.

Connor Bedard finding his footing after a rocky sophomore season

When Connor Bedard burst onto the scene in 2023 as the first overall pick, expectations were sky-high. And while his rookie year, shortened by a broken jaw, still earned him the Calder Trophy and impressive scoring numbers, Year 2 didn’t quite meet the hype.

He played all 82 games in his second season but managed only one more goal and six more points than his rookie campaign. His underlying numbers dipped, too, fewer shots, fewer scoring chances, and a noticeable drop in 5-on-5 production. There was even a frustrating 12-game goal drought.

But rather than crumble under pressure, Bedard used that year as a learning experience.

“I think you’ve just got to play,” Bedard said during media availability. “We’ve been playing since we were four or five years old. I’ve always loved the game, and I don’t think that should change once you get to the NHL. It’s more attention and pressure, but it’s still hockey. You’re living your dream, enjoy it and do your best.”

That mindset, enjoying the process rather than obsessing over results, has helped Bedard handle the grind of the NHL season. He’s learned how to separate his personal life from his performance and avoid carrying losses home with him.

The Chicago Blackhawks, meanwhile, are still in the middle of a rebuild. With an average age of just over 26, they are one of the league’s youngest teams. Bedard recognizes that progress takes time, just look at players like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, or Jack Hughes, who didn’t all explode into superstardom overnight.

“Not everyone’s winning the Hart Trophy at 19,” Bedard said. “I don’t want to compare my path to another guy’s. There’ve been a lot of players who didn’t light the league on fire at 18 or 19 and then did eventually.”

Connor Bedard’s patience and perspective fueling his growth

Heading into his third season, Connor Bedard seems to understand something vital: greatness takes patience. He’s not rushing his journey or worrying about his next contract. His entry-level deal expires after this season, but he and the Chicago Blackhawks appear content to let negotiations unfold naturally.

“We’ve talked a little bit, and neither of us is panicked,” Bedard said. “I want to be there, they want me there, it’ll get done when it gets done.”

It’s a refreshing approach, especially from a player who’s constantly compared to the likes of Sidney Crosby and McDavid. Bedard’s calm confidence reflects a growing maturity, a belief that his “big year” will come when it’s meant to.

Through the early part of the 2025–26 season, he’s showing signs of that promise. The Chicago Blackhawks are 2-2-1 after five games, and Bedard has already registered two goals and six points. While his advanced numbers suggest he and linemates Colton Dach and Andre Burakovsky have struggled defensively at 5-on-5, the production is there. And for a young player, that’s often where confidence begins.

Coach Jeff Blashill continues to experiment with line combinations, hoping to find the chemistry that unlocks Bedard’s full potential. The good news? Even when the underlying numbers aren’t perfect, Bedard is still finding ways to contribute, something he wasn’t consistently doing last year.

The hope in Chicago is that this season marks the turning point, the moment Bedard takes the leap from promising young star to full-blown offensive force.

Connor Bedard’s next step could mirror NHL greats

If there’s a player who can relate to Connor Bedard’s path, it’s Nathan MacKinnon. Like Bedard, MacKinnon started strong, then plateaued for a few years before breaking out spectacularly during his age-22 season. Now, he’s one of the NHL’s most dominant players.

He’s already shown flashes of brilliance, and his maturity, both emotionally and professionally, continues to grow. If he maintains his balanced approach and continues to focus on the details of his game, the breakout everyone’s been waiting for might arrive sooner rather than later.

For now, Bedard is simply enjoying the process, staying humble, and reminding everyone, including himself, that hockey, at its core, is still just a game he loves to play.

“You just live your dream,” he said with a grin. “Enjoy it, and do your best.”

And for Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks, that dream might just be about to take off.

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It has been a while since there was as noticeable a level of buzz around the Chicago Blackhawks as there was after their 8-3 thrashing of the St Louis Blues on Wednesday night. The Blackhawks were featured on TNT’s national broadcast as they took on their bitter rivals, who had taken control of the rivalry in recent years. After the win, Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar joined the TNT postgame show. Bedard sent a strong message to the hockey world:

“We don’t want to win in three years. We want to win now.”

It’s a win now mentality for Connor Bedard & the Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/mUtN0UWiia

— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) October 16, 2025

A few simple words spoken in a chill tone, but they immediately stood out. This franchise reached the decade mark since its last title this past June and has spent the majority of the 2020s rebuilding. Bedard was selected first overall in the 2023 NHL draft, joining a franchise in full rebuild mode. In his first two seasons, the Blackhawks went 48-99-17 with 113 points.

While part of a greater plan, the losses have to be getting to the now 20-year-old Bedard. He’s done with it, as are the fans.

Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks are making a statement

It might not seem like much more than a player saying the right things on TV, but it’s hard to argue that it’s not genuine. Not only blessed with elite skills, but he’s also a fierce competitor, and the desire to win is clearly there. Bedard mentioned his team being “fast” and “competitive” in that segment on TNT. Not only is he speaking for himself, but for a team filled with other young players itching for glory.

https://x.com/NHLBlackhawks/status/1978678449209303139

The value of this statement holds much weight, even if it doesn’t mean the Blackhawks will suddenly contend for a Stanley Cup this season. Rebuilding a team from the ground up requires more than just drafting young talent; it’s also about creating a winning culture. Successfully growing as a young team breeds confidence and the belief that they can compete with anyone. It’s no longer about what could be down the road for guys like Bedard; it’s about what they can be now.

Worth noting, these comments are in no way a shot at GM Kyle Davidson or his plan. Everyone, including Bedard, knows this is a long process. It’s also understood that this team will still lose a good number of games and have some rough patches this year. If anything, it shows that Davidson’s plan is starting to see the budding of the fruits of his labors. Bedard wasn’t insulting the plan; he is doing his part in moving it along.

Bedard is a voice for the team and the Blackhawks fans

Bedard speaks to a big city starving for championship-caliber sports again. Setting that tone goes a long way in getting the fans to buy in again. Ask any Chicago sports fan, and they’ll tell you they’ve had enough of teams rebuilding or retooling. Nobody wants to hear any more of “The next big thing is coming,” or “Just wait until two or three years from now.” The future needs to be now, and seeing that growth on and off the ice is how tomorrow becomes today.

and to all a goodnight pic.twitter.com/EckoMuW437

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 16, 2025

Wednesday night was one game, but the promise in a small sample is there. Hopefully, this ends up being the opening of a new, exciting book for the Chicago Blackhawks.

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Through five games in the NHL season, the Chicago Blackhawks have been a much more competitive team. The young core has shown grit and toughness in every game, including Wednesday’s dominating 8-3 win over the St Louis Blues.

One of the biggest takeaways of the first five games is the much improved play of Connor Bedard.

Bedard has shown much improvement with his passing, stick handling, and overall physicality. Number 98 had three assists during Wednesdays win and now has 6 points in 5 games.

Connor Bedard has gotten major praise from a top NHL insider

During the NHL on TNT’s postgame show, former NHL veteran Paul Bissonnette broke down Bedard’s much improved play. The NHL insider mentioned that last season he was very critical of Bedard, explaining that he was “swinging away” at times and looked sometimes “disinterested” and then went on to praise Bedard for how much better he has looked.

“His compete level is through the roof. He’s winning stick battles, puck battles.”

Bussonnette went on to praise the Hawks star for his overall toughness during Wednesdays game. Bedard has gotten way more physical and has done a much better standing up for himself and not backing down to opponents. The Hawks center has been jawing back at other players and it has been so much fun to watch.

.@BizNasty2point0 is loving the feisty Bedsy that showed up this season pic.twitter.com/CvdWs8ljJ6

— NHLonTNT (@NHL_On_TNT) October 16, 2025

”Connor Bedard looks like a completely different player this year”

Bedard has also shown great improvement on his passing, this was shown on Wednesday’s game with his three assists. It’s great to see the Blackhawks showing a lot of toughness and being competitive this early in the season. The future is very bright for our Blackhawks moving forward.

Bedsy’s in his BAG tonight. What a pass pic.twitter.com/6meOlRIVSU

— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) October 16, 2025

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It took four games, but the Chicago Blackhawks finally broke through and earned their first win of the 2025–26 NHL season with a 3-1 victory over the Utah Mammoth. It wasn’t the most exciting game, but it was exactly what the team needed — a solid, structured effort that finally turned into two points. After three straight one-goal losses, head coach Jeff Blashill got his first win behind the bench, and the players’ persistence paid off.

Chicago Blackhawks depth steps up in low-scoring win

The Chicago Blackhawks came out determined to play a more disciplined and defensively sound game, and it showed. The first period was slow, with both teams struggling to generate much offense, Chicago recorded just six shots on goal while Utah managed five.

The pace didn’t pick up much in the second period, but the Blackhawks made their chances count. Ilya Mikheyev broke the scoreless tie halfway through the period, netting his first goal of the season. He was set up beautifully by Jason Dickinson, who was returning from injury, and Ryan Donato, who had been working hard but hadn’t been rewarded yet.

All three players picked up their first points of the season on the play, making it a much-needed confidence boost for Chicago’s third line. Defenseman Artyom Levshunov, who rejoined the lineup after being a healthy scratch, also made a key play in the buildup to the goal, taking a hit to move the puck up ice. It was a small moment, but it showed the 19-year-old’s growing maturity.

Mikheyev later added an empty-net goal to seal the win, giving him two tallies on the night. For a team that’s been struggling to finish, getting production from the middle of the lineup was exactly what the Blackhawks needed.

“We’ve been in every game so far this season,” said head coach Jeff Blashill postgame. “Tonight, we just found a way to close it out. That’s the kind of effort we can build on.”

Chicago Blackhawks celebrate milestones for Burakovsky and Knight

Veteran forward Andre Burakovsky made his 700th NHL appearance one to remember by scoring the game-winning goal. Burakovsky, who has been playing alongside Connor Bedard since training camp, capitalized on a rebound in front of the net during a second-period power play.

He was assisted by Nick Foligno and Colton Dach, both earning their second points of the season. Interestingly, this goal came from the Blackhawks’ second power-play unit, which has looked sharper and more cohesive than the top unit early in the season.

For Burakovsky, it’s been a strong start in his new home. After successful stints with the Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche, and Seattle Kraken, he’s quickly becoming a steady veteran presence in Chicago. Through four games, he already has two goals and three points, and his leadership is proving valuable for the younger players.

In goal, Spencer Knight was stellar once again. The 23-year-old netminder stopped 27 of 28 shots to secure the win — his 50th career NHL victory. Knight downplayed the milestone after the game, choosing instead to praise his teammates for their defensive play.

“It feels good, but it’s about the team effort,” Knight said. “The guys did a great job keeping things predictable in front of me. Hopefully, there are many more wins ahead.”

Knight has been one of the Chicago Blackhawks’ most consistent performers to start the season, posting a .920 save percentage and a 2.35 goals-against average through his first three starts. His calm demeanor and strong positioning have given the team a chance to win every night.

Chicago Blackhawks look to build momentum

The Chicago Blackhawks are finally on the board with their first win of the season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. After three close losses, this victory should boost confidence across the locker room. The players are beginning to buy into Blashill’s structure and focus on “winning habits,” something he’s emphasized since taking over behind the bench.

Next up, the Blackhawks travel to St. Louis for a rivalry matchup against the Blues on Wednesday (Oct. 14). After that, they return home for games against the Vancouver Canucks and Anaheim Ducks over the weekend.

If they can carry this momentum forward and continue to get balanced scoring and strong goaltending, this could be the start of a much-needed upward trend for Chicago.

It wasn’t flashy, but it was the kind of win that builds belief, and for a young team still learning how to close games, that might be worth more than anything on the scoreboard.

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