3 burning Blackhawks questions entering 2026-27 NHL season

Entering the 2026-27 NHL season, the Chicago Blackhawks face several significant questions. First and foremost, the team will have to determine who can step up without Connor Bedard, who suffered a shoulder injury and will miss the beginning of the season. While Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen, and returning Patrick Kane are solid options, none of them can truly replace Bedard's impact on the team. The Blackhawks will need to find a way to fill that void as best they can during the initial stretch of games.

Secondly, the future Hall of Famer Patrick Kane returns to Chicago after a brief stint with the Detroit Red Wings. Kane has proven he can still perform at a high level, scoring 57 goals and 163 points for Detroit. However, it remains to be seen whether he can maintain that same level of play or if he is simply a shell of his former self. If Kane can replicate his Detroit performance, he will provide a significant boost to the Blackhawks' offense.

Lastly, the team must assess whether goaltender Spencer Knight can become a franchise player. Knight had a strong season with the Blackhawks, finishing in the top 10 among goalies in WAR and Goals Saved Above Expected statistics according to HockeyStats.com. Knight's potential was always evident, and he has demonstrated solid performances for Chicago.

However, it is unclear if Knight will be the franchise goaltender or if his play will return to Earth. The Blackhawks will need to weigh Knight's continued development against other potential goaltending options in the offseason.