Five Key Questions for the 2026-27 Chicago Blackhawks

The preseason is complete, and the Chicago Blackhawks are set to face off against the Las Vegas Golden Knights for their season opener on Tuesday night. The Golden Knights, having recently lost in the Stanley Cup Final to the Carolina Hurricanes, enter the season as strong contenders. In contrast, the Blackhawks face uncertainty. General manager Kyle Davidson aimed to address significant issues this offseason to uplift the team from its position in the NHL’s bottom ranks. Success in these efforts could instill hope, but failure may lead to repeating past struggles. This season is the time for significant progress. Below are five key questions facing the Blackhawks in 2026-27.

1. Will Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard Deliver On the Ice?

The Blackhawks hope Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard can ignite the team’s offense. Since drafting Bedard with the No. 1 pick in 2023, the team sought additional support for him. While Bedard has personal success, peaking at 30 goals and 45 assists last season, stronger line partners could enhance his performance. Though Kane, at 37, doesn’t play at MVP level, he remains productive. In the past three seasons, he has consistently performed with 163 points in 189 games. Initially, they won’t play together due to Bedard’s shoulder surgery, but the partnership holds promise for thrilling gameplay.

2. Is the Power Play Ready for Improvement?

Coach Jeff Blashill emphasizes the necessity of strong special teams as the Hawks build chemistry. They excelled in penalty kills last season, yet their power play faltered. With last season’s 16.9% power-play percentage, they ranked 29th in the league. This struggle continued in the preseason: one goal in ten attempts. The power play’s effectiveness remains crucial as Bedard recovers. Starting the season, the first power-play unit will feature Kane, Bowen Byram, Roman Kantserov, Anton Frondell, and Tyler Bertuzzi.

3. Can Artyom Levshunov Show Growth in His Sophomore Year?

Defensive development is crucial for Artyom Levshunov, the Blackhawks’ No. 2 draft pick in 2024. His rookie season was challenging, highlighted by decision-making issues and a minus-41 rating. Despite these obstacles, it’s premature to doubt his potential. Young defensemen often take time to develop. Should Levshunov evolve into a key offensive player, guiding the second power-play unit, it could bolster the team’s 2.56 goals per game average from last season. Team improvements rest on his progress alongside partner Wyatt Kaiser.

4. How Will Jeff Blashill Guide the Team Through Difficult Times?

As Bedard aims to return by November, the Hawks may face challenges in the season’s early stretch of 15 to 20 games. Blashill’s team must overcome expected underdog status. Despite an initial 10-5-4 start last season, the team encountered tough streaks. Blashill often responded by stressing growth and adaptability. As the league’s youngest team, evident progression in strategies and minimizing opponents’ shots will be crucial. Blashill’s adaptability, highlighted by effective lineup adjustments, will impact team confidence and performance.

5. How Will Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov Perform in Their First Full NHL Season?

Rookie forwards Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov enter the season with growing expectations. Frondell, aged 19, impressed in 12 games last season, while Kantserov, 22, joined following a standout season in the Kontinental Hockey League. Both players’ performances and positional adaptability are key. Frondell, a winger in Sweden, has shifted to center the second line. His development will be closely watched as he refines his faceoff technique. Kantserov, now considered for the top line, demonstrated potential at center. Blashill’s confidence in their positional versatility underlines the stakes. Their on-ice performance will determine whether these changes fuel their growth or hinder progress.