Chicago Blackhawks 2026-27 Season Preview: Training Camp Insights

Training Camp Overview

The Chicago Blackhawks have wrapped up their training camp for the 2026-27 season. The compressed camp and preseason have been challenging for many teams as they finalize lineups and strategies. Established squads like the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights find this transition smoother compared to the Blackhawks, who are still shaping their lineup.

With significant roster changes, the Hawks enter this season with noticeable improvements. Key additions, such as Patrick Kane and Bowen Byram, need to develop chemistry quickly. The regular season begins Tuesday against the Golden Knights in Las Vegas.

“There’s a bunch of new rules that we’ve had to navigate,” general manager Kyle Davidson remarked on the camp’s first day. “We have to get to our numbers and aim for a realistic NHL lineup immediately to create synergy and chemistry quickly.”

Preparing the Lineup

Coach Jeff Blashill maintained a consistent lineup through camp. Roman Kantserov, Frank Nazar, and Kane formed the top line while Alex Vlasic and Byram were paired in defense. Captain Connor Bedard’s return in November will prompt adjustments. The team requires initial games to establish a cohesive rhythm.

Blashill commented on the team’s readiness, noting, “We haven’t played fully as a group yet. While we might not reach 100% by Tuesday, we’ve worked hard to be as ready as possible.”

Standout Players

Bowen Byram

Bowen Byram displayed strong performance in camp with a hat trick against an AHL-heavy Minnesota Wild team, leading the Blackhawks to a 4-3 overtime win. His dynamic play aimed to enhance offensive capabilities during power plays and full-strength situations. With Vlasic, he forms a natural defensive pairing.

Byram stated, “I feel like we have a natural chemistry. He’s big, closes quickly, and ends plays, making my job easier.”

Though he didn’t score in the preseason finale, Byram integrated well into the team. Coach Blashill acknowledged Byram’s contributions: “He’s talented, confident, and a great team presence.”

Roman Kantserov

Roman Kantserov, a 22-year-old Russian wing, showcased enthusiasm with a promising start. Playing alongside Kane, he effectively capitalized on passes with one-timers, firing seven shots in three preseason games. He netted his first unofficial NHL goal against the St. Louis Blues.

Kantserov expressed, “Scoring at United Center felt unbelievable, but the focus now shifts to preparing for the regular season in Vegas.”

His KHL experience eased the NHL transition. Despite some experimentation at center, Kantserov remains a wing, likely partnering with Bedard.

Kevin Korchinski

Defenseman Kevin Korchinski, despite being vital to the team’s future, had limited exposure to main roster players. Achieving notable ice time in a Rockford-heavy lineup, he needs to prove himself further. Blashill trialed him on special teams but hesitated to place him in the starting lineup.

Blashill commented, “As of now, he’s on the outside looking in. Is there a path forward? Certainly, as the best players ultimately secure their slots.”

To retain him without waiver risks, Korchinski might start as a seventh defenseman. With veteran Ian Cole concluding his tenure, Korchinski is expected to impact more substantially in the coming years.