3 Blackhawks’ storylines to watch in season opener against Golden Knights

The Chicago Blackhawks open their 2026-27 NHL regular season against the Vegas Golden Knights without injured captain Connor Bedard. Head coach Jeff Blashill's squad features several new faces alongside returning forward Patrick Kane as they face a tough early test against last season's Stanley Cup finalists.

Key areas to monitor include Chicago's revamped penalty kill, which went a perfect 18-for-18 during the preseason despite losing key veterans. Blashill also adjusted his forward lines ahead of the trip, placing Roman Kantserov at center on the top line alongside Oliver Moore and Kane.