Blackhawks Weekly Breakdown: Bedard’s Back, Knight’s Standing Tall, and a Packed Slate Ahead
As the Chicago Blackhawks roll into the final week of January, there’s a noticeable shift in energy around the team-and it starts with the return of their young cornerstone.
Bedard and Nazar Back in Action
Connor Bedard is back, and that alone changes the entire complexion of this lineup. After missing time with a shoulder injury, the 18-year-old phenom returned earlier this month and wasted little time making his presence felt.
He notched an empty-netter in a 2-0 win over the Winnipeg Jets on Jan. 19-his first goal since coming back-and while it wasn’t flashy, it was vintage Bedard: heady, poised, and perfectly timed. Even with the missed games, he’s pacing the team with 48 points (20 goals, 28 assists) in just 36 contests.
That’s not just impressive-it’s elite.
Also making his way back into the fold is Frank Nazar, who returned in the Jan. 22 win over the Carolina Hurricanes after a 14-game absence due to an upper-body injury. Getting Nazar back adds another layer of speed and creativity to the forward group, and his return couldn’t have come at a better time as the Hawks gear up for a busy stretch.
Spencer Knight Holding It Down in Net
While the headlines have (rightfully) focused on Bedard, Spencer Knight has been quietly putting together a strong case as one of Chicago’s most reliable performers. His 32-save shutout against Winnipeg marked his third of the season and served as a reminder that this team’s defensive identity is starting to take shape.
Knight’s calm presence between the pipes has helped stabilize a young roster still learning how to win in the Central Division grind. He’s tracking the puck well, controlling rebounds, and giving the Blackhawks a chance to stay in games even when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders.
Toews Returns to the United Center
Jan. 19 wasn’t just about Bedard’s goal or Knight’s shutout-it was also an emotional night for Blackhawks fans as Jonathan Toews returned to the United Center for the first time as a visiting player. Now wearing a Winnipeg Jets sweater, the former captain was honored with a heartfelt tribute for his three Stanley Cups and years of leadership in Chicago.
The Blackhawks ultimately spoiled his homecoming with a 2-0 win, but the moment was bigger than the scoreboard. It was a chance for fans to salute one of the franchise’s all-time greats, and for Toews to soak in the appreciation from the city he helped bring back to hockey glory.
The Week Ahead: Jan. 25 - Feb. 1
The Blackhawks have a tough slate on deck, starting with a heavyweight matchup at home:
- **Jan. 25 (Sunday) vs.
Florida Panthers, 6:00 PM CT, United Center**
A marquee showdown against the defending Stanley Cup champions.
This one will be a measuring stick game for Chicago, especially with Bedard back in the lineup.
- Jan. 27 (Tuesday) @ Minnesota Wild, 7:00 PM CT, Grand Casino Arena A Central Division matchup that always brings intensity. Expect a physical game as both teams jockey for positioning.
- Jan. 29 (Thursday) @ Pittsburgh Penguins, 6:00 PM CT, PPG Paints Arena Bedard vs. Crosby.
Need we say more? The present meets the past in a must-watch generational battle.
- **Jan. 30 (Friday) vs.
Columbus Blue Jackets, 7:30 PM CT, United Center**
The second leg of a back-to-back.
Managing energy and depth will be key as the Hawks return home for this one.
With key players returning, the goaltending locked in, and a challenging week ahead, the Blackhawks are entering a pivotal stretch. They’re still building, still learning-but with Bedard leading the charge and Knight anchoring the back end, this team is starting to look like it has the foundation for something real.