Assessing the Chicago Blackhawks’ Prospects for the 2026-27 Season

The preseason has wrapped up, and the Chicago Blackhawks are set to face the Las Vegas Golden Knights in their opening match on Tuesday night. The Golden Knights are back strong after a Stanley Cup Final loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, a series where Cole Smith, now with the Hawks, played for Vegas. They remain a strong team for the 2026-27 season, while the Blackhawks face a more uncertain future.

General Manager Kyle Davidson made significant moves in the offseason aimed at fixing the team’s persistent problems, which resulted in a poor overall league standing for four consecutive seasons. Success in addressing these issues could bring a new hope for the team. Otherwise, they risk repeating past mistakes. Now, the team’s young talents need to show significant progress.

Key Questions for the Blackhawks in 2026-27

1. Can Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard be the dynamic duo fans want?

The team’s hope lies in the pairing of Patrick Kane and Connor Bedard. Drafted in 2023 as the number one pick, Bedard has delivered with 30 goals and 45 assists last season but needs well-performing wings to enhance his game. Patrick Kane, though older at 37, has consistently performed, averaging nearly a point per game over the last three seasons. The players will start the season separately due to Bedard’s recovery from shoulder surgery, but once together, they promise to be an impressive line-up on the ice.

2. Is the power play improved?

Coach Jeff Blashill emphasizes the importance of effective special teams while the team works on chemistry. The penalty kill unit was one of the best last season and maintained that standard in the preseason. Yet, their power play struggled, finishing 29th in the league with a low success rate. Currently, the first power play unit comprises Kane, Bowen Byram, Roman Kantserov, Anton Frondell, and Tyler Bertuzzi, a group vital to increasing their scoring success.

3. Will Artyom Levshunov progress in his second season?

Artyom Levshunov, the second overall pick in 2024, faced challenges in his rookie season, marked by turnovers and a minus-41 rating. At 21, it’s too soon to write him off, as defensemen typically take longer to develop. Observers hope to see Levshunov establish his playstyle this year, whether as an offensive powerhouse or a defensive strength, contributing to the team’s attack.

4. How will Jeff Blashill handle challenges?

With Bedard’s anticipated return in November, the Hawks face a series of tough games early into the season. Last year, the team had losing streaks post a strong start. Coach Blashill often called for player execution and adaptation, but must now translate those lessons into practical results. His ability to adapt tactics and make timely decisions is crucial to maintaining the team’s morale and performance.

5. Can rookies Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov manage full NHL seasons?

Anticipation surrounds Anton Frondell and Roman Kantserov in their first complete NHL season. Frondell, 19, had a promising start with nine points in 12 games, while Kantserov transitions from a 64-point season in Russia’s KHL. Positioned in new roles, their development is key to the Hawks’ success. Coach Blashill’s roster decisions, including positioning Kantserov as the center of the top line, aim to optimize their potential as they adjust and contribute to the team.