My Realistic Hope For The 2026-27 Blackhawks

It's Opening Night and I am choosing to believe in this group. I've written other hopeful blogs in the last month talking about the path and the expectations. Bedard paces for 100 points. Kane and Byram take the PP from one of the worst in the NHL to league average. Kantserov and Frondell are good out of the gates. Lev and Rinzel take big steps with their development and are competent in their own zone. Fix their record in 3 on 3. The top of the Central is still great, but it's probably not as daunting as it was last year with Colorado winning the Presidents' Trophy. There's a gleam. There's a reason to hope and to believe that the rebuild is over. I want playoffs and I am choosing to believe it's possible even if everyone thinks I am crazy for it. 

Here is what I actually want though. Here is how I would deem this season a success: These games have to feel important 

A ten day stretch in March. 5 games against teams who were in the playoffs last year and one against San Jose at home who the are organization that the Blackhawks are judged against. I want these games to matter. I want to wake up on 3/16 and have a win against San Jose put the Blackhawks in striking distance of a wild card spot. No more selling at the deadline. No more trading for futures. A big game, late in the season, with a playoff race on the line. If they get to that point then that is a good season. That is a fun season. That is the type of season that makes you think next year is THE year. 

I don't think that's crazy. I don't think that is being a homer. I don't think it's unrealistic. I believe in this group. The talent is there. It's a long season and still a very young team. There will be bumps in the road, but they won't be losers anymore. Give me big games in March and I'll be thrilled.