The Chicago Blackhawks have arrived in Las Vegas for their season opener after a brief preseason. The Golden Knights are anticipated to be strong contenders this year, having recently lost in the Stanley Cup Final to the Carolina Hurricanes. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks remain a challenging prospect for fans, as they look to rebuild after several disappointing seasons. Kyle Davidson, the team’s general manager, executed a busy offseason to address the notorious issues that left the Blackhawks among the NHL’s bottom three teams for four consecutive seasons. There’s hope these changes spark a turnaround.
Key Questions About the 2026-27 Blackhawks:
1. Will Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard Thrill Fans?
The Blackhawks seek to enhance Bedard’s performance since drafting him as the number one pick in 2023. Although Bedard achieved career highs with 30 goals and 45 assists, the absence of potent wings has limited his impact. Patrick Kane, now 37, could provide the support Bedard needs. Kane maintains nearly a point-per-game average with 163 points over 189 games. Due to Bedard’s shoulder surgery, their line will not debut immediately. If they click, expect dynamic plays from Bedard and strong finishes by Kane.
2. Has the Power Play Improved?
Special teams will bear significant importance, according to Coach Jeff Blashill, while the team gels. The Blackhawks excelled at penalty kills last season and sustained this in the preseason. The power play, however, struggled, ranking 29th with a 16.9% success rate. Preseason outcomes were similar, going 1-for-10 in power play opportunities. As Bedard recuperates, other players like Kane, Bowen Byram, Roman Kantserov, Anton Frondell, and Tyler Bertuzzi will comprise the initial power-play unit.
3. Will Artyom Levshunov Progress in Year 2?
Levshunov’s rookie performance wasn’t promising, with inconsistent decision-making and a minus-41 rating. Though occasionally flashy, he often struggled defensively. At 21, Levshunov has potential but requires time to refine his style, whether as an offensive force or a defensive stalwart. Practice shows he could lead the second power-play unit. If Levshunov emerges as a key player, Chicago could rectify its scoring issues, averaging 2.56 goals per game last season.
4. How Will Jeff Blashill Handle Challenges?
When Bedard returns around November, the team will have completed about 15-20 games, likely as underdogs in many. Blashill’s responses to adversity last season included stressing execution and adaptation. The Blackhawks remain the NHL’s youngest team despite veterans like Kane and Ian Cole. Fans hope for evidence of players learning from previous challenges. Blashill must rapidly adapt strategies if issues arise, to keep team morale and performance steady.
5. How Will Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov Perform?
Rookies Frondell and Kantserov, having joined the Hawks after notable performances abroad, now face significant responsibility in contributing to the team’s success. Frondell, a winger in Sweden, now centers the second line. Kantserov, after a successful Russian season, switched roles in the preseason finale and showed promise at center. Blashill’s decision to elevate Kantserov to the top line signals confidence in his capabilities. The duo’s adaptations will be crucial for the team’s prospects this season.