As the Chicago Blackhawks hit the road again, they're gearing up for a showdown with Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers. This journey will also take them to Seattle and San Jose, wrapping up their road games for the 2025-26 regular season.
Despite losing two defensemen for the year, head coach Jeff Blashill shared some positive news about two injured forwards before the team left for Edmonton.
In other Blackhawks updates, Roman Kantserov and Magnitogorsk breezed through their first playoff series, and a promising draft pick has just signed his entry-level contract, turning pro.
Elsewhere in the league, Macklin Celebrini led a thrilling comeback for the Sharks, the Kings snagged a crucial overtime win to boost their playoff hopes, and Nathan MacKinnon hit a milestone with his 50th goal of the season.
Let’s dive into the details!
Chicago Blackhawks Updates
Tyler Bertuzzi has been lighting up the scoreboard, setting a new personal best in goals with a pair against the Winnipeg Jets. Meanwhile, Anton Frondell celebrated his first NHL goal during his debut at the United Center. Despite the Blackhawks taking their fifth overtime loss in March, there are plenty of positives to focus on.
Adam Gajan, a promising goalie prospect, has officially turned pro, signing his entry-level contract under GM Kyle Davidson after an impressive college hockey season.
Unfortunately, the Blackhawks will finish the season without defensemen Artyom Levshunov and Matt Grzelcyk, as announced by Coach Blashill. This opens up opportunities for Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro to step up in their absence.
On a brighter note, forward Oliver Moore is making strides in his recovery and aims to return before the season's end. Andrew Mangiapane, sidelined with an upper-body injury, will accompany the team on their road trip, though he won't play against Edmonton.
Around the League
In the KHL, Roman Kantserov and Metallurg Magnitogorsk advanced to the second playoff round after edging out Sibir Novosibirsk. Kantserov has been a standout, tallying four points so far. Next up for Magnitogorsk is a clash with Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod.
In AHL action, prospect Jiri Felcman made his North American pro debut with the Rockford IceHogs, joining the third line alongside Harrison Israels and Martin Misiak. Despite a tough 5-0 loss to the Grand Rapids Griffins, Felcman's entry into the league is a key development for the Blackhawks.
NHL Highlights
The Toronto Maple Leafs face an uncertain offseason, with futures hanging in the balance. Yet, star William Nylander has expressed a desire to remain with the team, provided certain conditions are met.
The San Jose Sharks pulled off a late-game stunner, with Macklin Celebrini and Alexander Wennberg scoring in the final moments to secure a win. Celebrini notched his 40th goal and added three assists, showcasing his incredible talent.
In Los Angeles, Trevor Moore was the overtime hero, propelling the Kings to a 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues and into a playoff spot.
Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks surprised everyone by scoring eight goals against the top-ranked Colorado Avalanche. Despite the loss, Nathan MacKinnon became the first player to reach 50 goals this season, trailing only Connor McDavid for the points lead.
Stay tuned for more thrilling action as the season races towards its climax!