Blackhawks Enter Pivotal Week Ahead of Olympic Break: Buyer or Seller?
As the NHL heads into the final stretch before the 2026 Winter Olympic break, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves at a crossroads. With just two games on the schedule this week, the stakes are higher than they might appear on paper. This isn't just about grabbing a few points before the pause - it's about shaping the direction of the franchise heading into the trade deadline and beyond.
A Brief Window, A Big Decision
At 21-25-9, the Blackhawks are hovering in that murky middle ground - not quite in the playoff picture, but not fully out of it either. They're behind teams like the San Jose Sharks in the wild card race, and time is running short. This week’s pair of games could help determine whether Chicago leans into a playoff push or starts preparing to move assets ahead of the March 6 trade deadline.
That looming decision - to buy or to sell - is front and center. And it's not just a front office debate anymore.
The players know what's at stake. These next two games are an audition, not just for the stretch run, but for their spot in the organization’s long-term plans.
Trade Deadline Looms: Time to Cash Out or Build Up?
The names being floated around are familiar to Blackhawks fans. Veterans like Connor Murphy, Jason Dickinson, and Nick Foligno are all on expiring contracts, and each could bring back draft capital or prospects if the team decides to sell. Murphy, in particular, would be a coveted piece for any contender looking to shore up their blue line with a steady, physical presence.
But here's where things get interesting: there’s growing buzz that Chicago might not be content with just selling. Instead, they could look to acquire players with term - guys who can grow alongside Connor Bedard and help fast-track the rebuild. Rumors have hinted at potential targets from teams like the Canucks and Rangers, signaling that GM Kyle Davidson might be thinking bigger than just draft picks.
If that's the case, this week isn’t just about evaluating who might be on the way out - it's also about identifying who can be part of the next core.
Bedard’s Breakout Continues - and So Does the Pressure
Speaking of the next core, let’s talk about Connor Bedard. The 18-year-old phenom is doing more than just living up to expectations - he’s redefining what’s possible for a first-year franchise centerpiece. With 52 points in 42 games, Bedard is pacing for a 100-point season while also showing real growth in his two-way play.
But as Bedard continues to light up the scoresheet, the clock is ticking on his entry-level deal. That adds another layer of urgency for the front office.
If you're trying to build around a generational talent, you can’t afford to waste seasons. The decisions made over the next few weeks - including how this week plays out - will send a message to Bedard about the organization’s direction and ambition.
And then there’s the added spotlight of Friday’s matchup against the Sharks, where Bedard will go head-to-head with fellow young star Macklin Celebrini. It’s a marquee showdown between two of the league’s brightest young talents - and a potential preview of a rivalry that could define the next decade.
What’s Ahead: Feb. 1-8
Here’s what the week looks like for Chicago:
- Feb. 2 vs. San Jose Sharks - All eyes will be on Bedard vs.
Celebrini in a battle of future faces of the league. With playoff implications on the line and trade deadline narratives swirling, this one carries more weight than your average midseason game.
- Feb. 6 vs. TBD opponent - The final game before the Olympic break. Expect intensity, urgency, and perhaps a few players trying to leave one final impression before decisions are made.
This is more than just a quiet week on the calendar. It’s a defining stretch for a team still figuring out what it wants to be. Whether the Blackhawks emerge from the Olympic break as sellers, buyers, or something in between, the next few days could shape the franchise’s path - and Bedard’s future - in a big way.