The Chicago Blackhawks have struggled recently, winning just one of their last eight games—a shootout triumph over the Dallas Stars, one of the NHL’s top teams. The team has faced significant difficulties due to the absence of key players Connor Bedard and Frank Nazzal.
In their upcoming game, the Blackhawks will host the surprising New York Islanders, a team gaining attention this season partly thanks to the addition of 2025 NHL Draft top pick Matthew Schaefer. The Islanders currently rank second in the Metropolitan Division with 46 points, achieving 21 wins, 14 losses, and 4 draws.
The Islanders boast talented players across their roster, contributing to their position as a top-three divisional team. Key players include Lee Barzal and Bo Horvat, who provide solid center depth alongside JG Pageau and Casey Cizikas. Matthew Schaefer shows great promise on defense, and goalkeeping duties have fallen to David Rittich in the absence of injured star Ilya Sorokin, with Marcus Hogberg also a potential option.
The Blackhawks, meanwhile, are missing Bedard and Nazzal, making it difficult to field a winning team at present. However, they possess strong role players and veteran leaders who can guide the younger players as the team navigates its current slump. The projected lineup features players like Bertuzzi, Green, Burakovsky, Teravainen, Moore, Ladis, and others, with Spencer Knight expected to start in goal despite recent inconsistent performances.
Before practice on Monday, Bedard was seen skating as part of his recovery from a shoulder injury, while Nazzal reported he is dealing with a broken jaw.
Fans can listen to the game locally on AM 720 WGN or watch it on CHSN, ESPN+, or NHL Network, with puck drop just after 7:30 PM PT.
Fan Take:
This matchup highlights the challenges and opportunities facing rebuilding teams like the Blackhawks against rising contenders like the Islanders. It underscores the evolving landscape of the NHL, where young talent and strategic acquisitions can rapidly shift a team’s fortunes, making each game crucial for fans invested in the sport’s future.
