Around the Rink: Blackhawks’ Growing Pains, Trade Chatter, and a League in Motion
The Chicago Blackhawks are limping into the Olympic break, and the numbers tell the story: a 4-0 shutout loss to the Blue Jackets underscored just how far this team still has to go. The offense sputtered, the power play looked lifeless, and the defensive zone breakdowns were too frequent to ignore. For a team in transition, nights like this are part of the process-but that doesn’t make them any easier to watch.
Let’s break down where things stand in Chicago and what’s happening around the NHL.
Blackhawks: Progress Comes in Frustrating Increments
Development vs. Results
GM Kyle Davidson remains optimistic, saying the team has “taken a nice step” this season. And to be fair, there are signs of growth.
But with a 21-39-9 record, progress is coming in small doses. The rebuild blueprint is still intact, but patience is being tested-especially when you look at how other rebuilding teams, like the Sharks, are starting to show signs of life while the Hawks continue to grind through growing pains.
Levshunov’s Learning Curve
All eyes are on defenseman Artyom Levshunov. The Blackhawks are working with him to improve his shot-both in terms of velocity and deception.
There’s also a question looming: Would a stint in the AHL help his development? That’s not an indictment of his talent, but rather a reflection of how steep the NHL learning curve can be, especially for young blueliners.
The team is being deliberate, knowing that rushing development now could cost them later.
Connor Murphy’s Final Chapter?
As the trade deadline nears, Connor Murphy’s future in Chicago is uncertain. The veteran defenseman has been a steady presence through some turbulent seasons, and he’s made it clear he still dreams of rewarding the city for its patience. Whether he gets that chance remains to be seen, but his leadership has been invaluable during this rebuild.
Mikheyev Keeping Focused
Forward Ilya Mikheyev isn’t letting trade rumors distract him. With the deadline approaching, his name is one of several floating around, but he’s keeping the focus on the ice. That mindset will be crucial for a team trying to stay competitive amid roster uncertainty.
Top Prospects and Draft Capital
The Hawks may have two top-16 picks in the 2026 NHL Draft-depending on how the Panthers finish. That’s a big potential boost for a team that’s already building through youth. Meanwhile, Frank Nazar and Connor Bedard are starting to find chemistry, giving fans a glimpse of what the future could look like up front.
Power Play Problems
One area that continues to drag: the power play. More practice isn’t necessarily the answer here-it’s about execution and confidence.
The talent is there, but the unit’s rhythm has been off. Until that clicks, the Hawks will struggle to generate consistent offense.
Trade Board Watch
The trade board is starting to take shape, and the Blackhawks have several pending UFAs who could draw interest. Don’t expect a fire sale, but there’s a real chance for Davidson to pick up more assets and keep the long-term plan moving forward.
Around the NHL: Trades, Injuries, and Olympic Shakeups
Panarin Heads West
One of the biggest moves of the week: Artemi Panarin has been traded to the Kings and signed a two-year deal. That’s a major shakeup with playoff implications, as Los Angeles adds a dynamic offensive weapon for the stretch run.
Olympic Rosters in Flux
David Pastrnak and Leon Draisaitl have been named Olympic flag-bearers-an honor that speaks to their impact both on and off the ice. Meanwhile, roster changes continue: Anthony Cirelli is out for Team Canada, replaced by Sam Bennett, and Finland has tapped Joonas Korpisalo as a replacement goalie.
Injury Updates
Injuries are piling up. Kris Letang is out at least four weeks with a broken foot, and Thatcher Demko is done for the season after hip surgery. Jack Hughes left early with a lower-body injury, and Victor Hedman isn’t ruling out a return for the Stadium Series.
Suspensions and Discipline
The Penguins’ Bryan Rust has been suspended three games for a hit on Brock Boeser, while the league has passed several discipline decisions to the Player Safety department. Meanwhile, goaltender Jones of the Penguins has been handed a 20-game suspension for a PED violation-a significant blow to Pittsburgh’s depth.
Other Notable Moves
- The Devils traded Ondrej Palat to the Islanders in exchange for Tsyplakov.
- The Red Wings signed Ben Chiarot to a three-year deal.
- Vladar, the Czech Olympian, has been activated off IR by the Flyers.
Quick Hits from the Ice
Game Recaps
It was a wild night across the league:
- The Panthers edged the Bruins 5-4 in a thriller.
- The Canadiens stunned the Jets 5-1.
- The Wild outlasted the Predators 6-5 in a back-and-forth battle.
- The Avalanche beat the Sharks 4-2.
- The Stars slipped past the Blues 5-4.
- The Flames took down the Oilers 4-3 in a tight Alberta clash.
- The Golden Knights rolled past the Canucks 5-2.
- The Kraken handled the Kings 4-2.
As the league heads into the Olympic break, teams are making moves, players are chasing milestones, and the playoff picture is starting to take shape. For rebuilding clubs like the Blackhawks, it’s about staying the course-even when the road gets bumpy.
And for contenders, it’s time to gear up. The second half of the season is about to get a whole lot more interesting.