As the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics wrap up, the NHL is ready to jump back into action. The 2025-26 regular season resumes with eight games on the slate, setting the stage for a thrilling nine days leading up to the trade deadline.
For the Chicago Blackhawks, it's crunch time. They'll squeeze in one last practice before jetting off to Nashville to take on the Predators.
With just four games left before the deadline, GM Kyle Davidson has some big decisions to make regarding pending unrestricted free agents. The Blackhawks are expected to be sellers, but don't anticipate a fire sale-only a couple of players might be on the move.
Keep an eye on this space for insights into who might stay and who could go.
In other news, Blackhawks prospect Roman Kantserov continues to dazzle in the KHL, netting his 32nd goal of the season. At just 21, he's the only player in the league to hit the 30-goal mark this year, ranking eighth overall with 58 points.
Meanwhile, some of the Blackhawks' young stars, including Connor Bedard and Colton Dach, enjoyed a night out at the United Center, catching the Bulls take on the Hornets. The players were spotted courtside and even swapped jerseys with Bulls players like Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey, showing the camaraderie between Chicago's sports teams.
As the trade season heats up, the Pittsburgh Penguins and Colorado Avalanche have already made a move, swapping defensemen Brett Kulak and Samuel Girard, with a 2028 second-round pick heading to Pittsburgh.
On the injury front, Sidney Crosby will be sidelined for several weeks after getting hurt at the Olympics. The Penguins will miss their captain's presence as they push for the playoffs.
Dylan Larkin, fresh off helping Team USA secure gold in Milan, is expected to suit up for the Detroit Red Wings as they return to play. His celebrations haven't slowed him down one bit.
In a special moment, goaltender Connor Hellebuyck received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Donald Trump, honoring his contributions to Team USA's Olympic success.
The Winnipeg Jets are facing a challenging season, likely missing the playoffs after winning the President's Trophy last year. Despite the tough times, Jonathan Toews is not expected to waive his no-movement clause to join a contender.
Finally, the Tampa Bay Lightning are getting healthier just in time for the season's resumption. Key players like Victor Hedman and Brayden Point are set to rejoin the lineup, providing a much-needed boost for the Bolts.
Stay tuned as the NHL gears up for an exciting stretch leading into the trade deadline, with plenty of storylines to watch.