UPDATE: The Chicago Blackhawks kick off their centennial season against the Florida Panthers on October 10, 2025, amid critical questions about their future. With a young star in Connor Bedard, a new head coach in Jeff Blashill, and a roster filled with expiring contracts, fans are eager for answers as the team aims to rebound from last season.
The Blackhawks finished last season with a dismal scoring-chance percentage of 42.8% in five-on-five situations, the lowest in the NHL. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the first question on everyone’s mind is: Can the Hawks create scoring chances? The team needs to improve its offensive output significantly. The top line featuring Ryan Donato, Bedard, and André Burakovsky must generate more opportunities. Last season, they combined for 64 goals and 102 assists, but the overall scoring struggles were evident.
Blashill, who took the helm after a stint with the Detroit Red Wings, emphasizes a fast-paced game that promotes predictability among players. This strategy aims to transform the Hawks’ stagnant offense into a more dynamic scoring threat.
Will the defense be aggressive? This is another pressing question. Last season, the Blackhawks allowed an average of 24.9 scoring chances per game, ranking them second worst in the league. Blashill’s vision includes a more aggressive defensive strategy, particularly in the neutral zone. With the addition of goaltender Spencer Knight and a promising top pairing of Sam Rinzel and Alex Vlasic, fans hope for improved defensive performance this season.
As the Hawks prepare to face the Panthers, another question looms: Will Connor Bedard sign an extension? The 2023 top pick has yet to comment on his contract talks, creating uncertainty around his future with the franchise. Bedard, who demonstrated exceptional playmaking skills last season, must focus on improving his speed and faceoff percentage. With the most cap space in the league, the Blackhawks must navigate Bedard’s potential extension while also considering the future of other young players.
“I can’t put a timeline on when the losing will decrease,” Blashill stated, emphasizing the need for patience.
In his first head coaching role in four years, Blashill’s success hinges on how quickly he can instill a winning culture. Fans are eager to see how his strategies will manifest on the ice.
As the season progresses, another critical consideration is what the team will look like by season’s end? The Blackhawks have invested heavily in new contracts for players like Frank Nazar, but they may also need to make tough decisions regarding veterans like Connor Murphy and Jason Dickinson, who are in the final year of their contracts. With a focus on developing their youth, the Hawks may be gearing up for more trades as they aim to build a competitive roster.
As the Chicago Blackhawks step into their 100th season, all eyes will be on these pivotal questions. The time is now for the Hawks to prove their commitment to a brighter future as they face the Panthers this Tuesday. Fans are hopeful that the answers will lead to a season filled with promise and success.
