The Chicago Blackhawks remained in rebuilding mode during the 2025-26 season, finishing last in the Central Division for the fourth consecutive year. While another playoff berth was never expected, Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss why there are encouraging signs throughout the organization. From Connor Bedard's continued development under new head coach Jeff Blashill to an impressive collection of future draft picks and a stronger defensive identity, the Blackhawks appear to be laying the foundation for a return to contention in the years ahead.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:00:00] The Blackhawks are officially eliminated from playoff contention on April 2 after another season at the bottom of the Central Division. Neil and Vic discuss why expectations remained modest entering the year despite Jeff Blashill taking over behind the Chicago bench, and why the rebuild appears to be progressing in the right direction.

[00:00:45] Neil explains that Chicago's long-term plan remains focused on accumulating elite young talent before aggressively adding veteran pieces. Connor Bedard continues his development, showing significant improvement defensively under Blashill while maturing into the franchise cornerstone the Blackhawks envisioned.

[00:01:00] The discussion turns to Chicago's impressive collection of future assets. The Blackhawks own nine selections in the 2026 NHL Draft, including two first-round picks and three second-round picks, while also holding the possibility of multiple first-round selections again in 2027, giving General Manager Kyle Davidson tremendous flexibility to continue building the roster.

[00:01:45] Neil and Vic review Chicago's offseason contract priorities. Connor Bedard headlines the restricted free agent class, while defenseman Kevin Korchinski also requires a new contract. The panel expects Bedard's extension to be one of the organization's easiest decisions after his continued growth.

[00:02:00] Defensively, the Blackhawks show noticeable improvement. Their penalty kill becomes one of the NHL's best, while goals against decline from the previous season despite still finishing above three goals allowed per game. Neil credits Jeff Blashill for establishing stronger defensive habits throughout a young roster.

[00:02:30] The conversation shifts to the changing leadership within the organization following the departures of longtime veterans Nick Foligno, Jason Dickinson, and Connor Murphy. With Connor Bedard now wearing an "A," the Blackhawks officially enter a new era centered around their emerging young core.

[00:03:00] Neil and Vic evaluate the supporting cast around Bedard, highlighting productive seasons from Tyler Bertuzzi and Ryan Donato while acknowledging that Chicago still lacks the overall depth necessary to compete consistently with the NHL's top teams.

[00:03:30] The episode concludes with optimism about Chicago's future. Although the rebuild is far from complete, the Blackhawks possess a deep prospect pool, significant draft capital, an improving defensive structure, and one of the league's brightest young stars in Connor Bedard, giving the organization reason to believe brighter days are approaching.