RSS Blackhawks Team Notes

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Kaiser Update, USA Women Dominate, Fiala Hurt, Prospect Highlights, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

Scott Powers put out a two mailbag pieces at The Athletic this week that got into a lot of good questions. There’s a lot in both sections — again, I highly recommend Part I and Part II. In the first piece, the biggest news nugget I took away was this quasi-update on injured Blackhawks defenseman Wyatt Kaiser:

From what it sounds like, the injury isn’t as bad as the Blackhawks initially feared. We’ll soon see what that means for a timeline.

Powers’ second Blackhawks mailbag piece starts with a lengthy answer to a question asking to compare the current states of the rebuild in Chicago and San Jose. I already gave my take on that before the two teams played each other on Feb. 2. The comments there are pretty similar. He also answers a bunch of questions about the Panthers’ pick protection debacle (he also didn’t know it had a top-10 protection designation) and he answers a question that’s all-too familiar to me: when do we start giving up on prospects if they aren’t as good as we want them to be right now?

But what you have to understand about this path is that most of these young players need more time. …

… you need to let it play out a little longer. [Frank] Nazar is in his second full pro season and first in the NHL. [Ryan] Greene and [Oliver] Moore are in their first full pro seasons. [Kevin] Korchinski is 21, in his third full pro season, and is playing between 21 and 25 minutes a night in the AHL. It’s not like the Blackhawks have moved on from him.

Sound familiar?

Part 2 of my Blackhawks’ mailbag https://t.co/gh5XuPU3jk

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) February 13, 2026

• The United States women should probably apologize to the parents and next of kin of Italy’s women’s team after yesterday. If not for a weak “shot” on net with 24 seconds left in regulation, the US would have scored more goals than Italy had credited shots on goal. In the 6-0 US victory, the Americans had a 51-6 shot advantage. Yes, I said 51-6. The game was chippy and the Italians were taking their share of cheap shots, so the US just didn’t take their foot off the gas pedal.

Kendall Coyne Schofield netted two goals to power the U.S. Olympic Women’s Ice Hockey Team past Italy, 6-0, in their #WinterOlympics quarterfinal. Up next: the semifinals!

Game recap: https://t.co/8dNECncTJu pic.twitter.com/WXphkx5BHu

— USA Hockey (@usahockey) February 14, 2026

• On the men’s side of the Olympics, the biggest news on Friday wasn’t Canada obliterating Switzerland. It was an ugly injury that will have significant implications in the NHL. Swiss / LA Kings forward Kevin Fiala got tangled up with Canada / Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson (totally clean play) and went down awkwardly. Fiala did not get up, and needed a stretcher to leave the ice. I’m not going to embed the video, but you can click here to see the play. As a rookie in the 2017 playoffs, Fiala broke his femur.

• We don’t have any additional clarification of what the exact injury is for Fiala yet (as of me writing this), but Elliotte Friedman reports this morning that his NHL season is over and he’s already had surgery.

One update from last night: Kevin Fiala is having surgery this morning in Italy.

No clarity yet on exact injury, but, unfortunately, it will be season-ending. All the best to him in his recovery.

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 14, 2026

• Fiala’s 18 goals and 40 points both rank second on the Kings this season. Yes, the Kings just acquired Artemi Panarin before the Olympic break, but Fiala is a huge part of that team. LA was rumored to still be searching the market for some additional help to make a playoff push in Anze Kopitar’s final season. This injury likely changes the calculus on their “needs” before the trade deadline.

• Here’s your men’s Olympic hockey schedule for Saturday:

• Sweden vs. Slovakia — 5:10 AM CT
• Germany vs. Latvia — 5:10 AM
• Finland vs. Italy — 9:40 AM
• United States vs. Denmark — 2:10 PM

• I keep seeing comments on social media and here that the Blackhawks “don’t like” and/or “don’t want to draft” Gavin McKenna. To be clear: I do not think the Blackhawks wouldn’t/won’t draft McKenna — I just believe he isn’t No. 1 on their board. Powers touched on that, too.

I don’t think they’re sold on McKenna as the top pick in 2026. They’re not the only ones who think that. McKenna’s game has shown some flaws in college. If they’re drafting further down the top 10 and he’s still on the board, they’d have to consider him. His offensive ability can’t be ignored. I don’t think it’s certain that they won’t draft him.

• Hey, Lemont-native Scott Darling is going to be in Rockford tomorrow!

Scott Darling is returning to the @BMOCenter on Sunday as part of our @NHLBlackhawks Centennial Celebration weekend!! https://t.co/lCrCKp5x7F

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) February 13, 2026

How about some Blackhawks prospect highlights?​

• Here’s Roman Kantserov‘s KHL-leading 30th goal of the season from Friday’s action. Powers was asked about why there isn’t more hype around a young forward (21) who’s putting up numbers comparable to what Kirill Kaprizov did in the KHL at the same age. He didn’t have an answer beyond his listed size being a possible flag for some folks. I don’t have a good reason for more people outside of Chicago to not be talking about him at this point, either.

#Blackhawks prospect Roman Kantserov gets his 30th goal of the season!pic.twitter.com/WSBjK53Lx7

— Talkin’ Hawkey (@TalkinHawkey) February 13, 2026

• In college, John Mustard got Providence on the board last night with his 12th goal of the season. Julius Sumpf picked up the second assist on the Mustard marker. Unfortunately, the Friars’ nine-game win streak ended.

Gamache sends Mustard down the left wing and he finishes on the backhand for his 12th of the season! Julius Sumpf also earns as assist on the play.https://t.co/fGIZhNe3B0 x @ESPNPlus https://t.co/6A8D1e9NQD pic.twitter.com/ImnZGdta7q

— PC Men's Hockey (@FriarsHockey) February 14, 2026

• In the WHL, Nathan Behm picked up an assist on a 5-2 loss for Kamloops.

• In the USHL last night, Mason West went top shelf for Fargo last night.

MASON WEST. TOP SHELF. NASTY. pic.twitter.com/lhWJsq2ICK

— Fargo Force (@FargoForce) February 14, 2026

• In the OHL, Jack Pridham scored his 35th goal of the season. He also picked up two more assists for a three-point night. Pridham now has 70 points in 51 games on the season.

This guy is Priddy good!

Jack Pridham gets his 35th of the season for the @OHLRangers as they double up their lead in Kingston!#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/cp37h8RihZ

— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) February 14, 2026

• With Pridham on his heels in the OHL scoring race, Marek Vanacker scored his 36th and 37th goals of the year last night. Vanacker now has 61 points in 45 games this season, and reached two big milestones in his OHL career last night.

THAT’S TWO MILESTONES FOR MAREK!!

With tonight’s goal, Marek Vanacker recorded his 100th career goal and 200th career point!

Congratulations, Marek! #BFD pic.twitter.com/FVKyDTkZMZ

— Brantford Bulldogs (@BulldogsOHL) February 14, 2026

• Finally, a brief baseball note if I might. Shoutout to Luke Lawrence, St. Rita’s own and starting second baseman for the University of Kentucky. He hit a grand slam on opening day for the Wildcats, a 13-2 win at UNC Greensboro. He’s going to make a major league GM really happy in a few months after the draft. I see his dad around the United Center every once in a while. Great kid!

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• Joe Thuney’s first year with the Bears was transformative and historic

• Shelby Miller is reportedly closing on a multi-year deal with the Cubs.

• Matas Buzelis’ Team Vince wins the 2026 Rising Stars Challenge

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...pect-highlights-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

USA and Canada Start Strong, Russia’s Future, a Development Reminder, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

The men’s tournament at the Olympics really got cranked up on Thursday. Even though there weren’t any Blackhawks on the ice, the hockey was pretty good. Canada won their game by a comfortable margin, even if the first period was closer than the final would make you think. The United States scored seven goals but only won 5-1 because Latvia’s video coach played the best defense on the team.

This goal from the USA is exactly what you want to see in a best-on-best in the entire world tournament. Crisp, precise passing with a finish. Absolutely gorgeous.

This is what “best-on-best” in the world type shit should look like

Damn

pic.twitter.com/xpd0M3Tm3B

— Tab Bamford (@The1Tab) February 12, 2026

Here’s your men’s Olympic hockey schedule for Friday:

• Finland (0-1) vs. Sweden (1-0) — 5:10 AM CT
• Italy (0-1) vs. Slovakia (1-0) — 5:10 AM
• France (0-1) vs. Czechia (0-1) — 9:40 AM
• Canada (1-0) vs. Switzerland (1-0) — 2:10 PM

• Even though they got steamrolled by the US, teenage Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits was pretty impressive. He was minus-one in 17:57 on the ice and looked like he belongs — which, again, is pretty impressive from a player who turned 18 in early December and is eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft. I had Šmits at No. 6 in my top 50 draft rankings earlier this week. A strong Olympics could see him climb into top-five pick consideration — if he wasn’t already there. I wasn’t the only person impressed with his effort on Thursday.

Alberts Smits out here running a top Olympic power play unit like this is normal for an 18-year-old

This kid belongs.

— Cam Robinson (@Hockey_Robinson) February 12, 2026

Alberts Smits (2026) has played 12:48 through two periods for Latvia in his Olympic debut against USA. That’s fourth amongst their D. Has held his own, too.

— Scott Wheeler (@scottcwheeler) February 12, 2026

• Good read here from Mark Lazerus in Italy on the future of Russia in international best-on-best events.

NEW: The NHL — wary of taking any sort of political stand — will continue to defer to the international sporting community when it comes to Russia. So for now, they wouldn't be in the 2028 World Cup.

More from Gary Bettman, Marty Walsh and Luc Tardif:https://t.co/kLmtU9uI2Q

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) February 12, 2026

• The only Blackhawks prospect in action last night was AJ Spellacy with Windsor. He had this nice assist on a goal from 2026 draft-eligible forward Ethan Belchetz last night.

Spellacy Sauces Belchetz Buries

The @SpitsHockey have now scored four unanswered goals to lead 4-2 in the second!#NHLDraft | #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/enHgKuIASO

— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) February 13, 2026

• Nice read here from Seth Rorabaugh for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on Penguins defenseman Ryan Shea. If the name rings a small, quiet bell in the back of your mind as a Blackhawks fan, it should. The Hawks drafted Shea in the fourth round in 2015. He played another USHL season and then four at Northeastern after being drafted, then signed with Dallas and then went on to Pittsburgh. He’s got a chance to more than double his career NHL games played this season.

• A reminder: defensemen take time to develop. And it isn’t always a 1-3 year proposition.

“Pittsburgh’s been the one spot that’s given me opportunity and kind of let me grow in my position. … This is the spot that I want to be, and this is the spot that allowed me to play to myself.”

On Ryan Shea finding his spot with the Penguins:https://t.co/PxoFDe50Io

— Seth Rorabaugh (@SethRorabaugh) February 12, 2026

• James Murphy at RG Media wrote a good piece on the state of affairs in Columbus. He writes that the Blue Jackets are working on extensions for forwards Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment and captain Boone Jenner — effectively taking them off the trade market. They reportedly want to make a push for the playoffs, which would theoretically make them potential buyers before the trade deadline.

• The Blackhawks spin here: those three off the market is an opportunity improvement for the Blackhawks if/when they start shopping their forwards. It also makes me wonder about the Blue Jackets potentially having interest in current Blackhawks — and offseason Columbus residents — Nick Foligno and/or Connor Murphy.

Multiple NHL sources tell RG that Columbus is working to extend Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment and Boone Jenner — and they’re off the trade market.

Don Waddell is set to begin talks next week as the Blue Jackets push for the playoffs.

Full story https://t.co/Dm9yKRIB0R

— RG (@TheRGMedia) February 12, 2026

Blackhawks Prospect Watch​

• OHL
  Erie at Brantford — 7 PM CT
  Kitchener at Kingston — 7:05 PM

• WHL
  Kamloops at Prince George — 9 PM

Blackhawks College Prospects: Providence is HOT, BU Needs Wins, Light Schedule #blackhawkshttps://t.co/IzXmoEluiG

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 12, 2026

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Alex Bregman is Already Helping His New Cubs Teammates

NBA All-Star Weekend: What the Heck Are We Doing At This Point?

NFL Experts Mock Draft Roundup — What They’re Saying About the Bears

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...opment-reminder-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Lardis’ Opportunity, Olympics Wrap Pool Play, Spellacy Suspended, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

The hope is that Nick Lardis, who has appeared in 21 games with the Blackhawks this season, works on the things he’s been assigned while in Rockford until a spot on the NHL roster opens up. He showed well while with the Blackhawks, scoring five times. He should be able to dominate the AHL. On Saturday night he got off to a good start (again).

Blackhawks prospects got back after it in Rockford last night, and the IceHogs started their post-All-Star schedule with a big 6-2 win over Milwaukee. With a goal and an assist in the win, Lardis now has 16 goals and 14 assists in 29 games with Rockford during his first professional season. And, again, I’ll remind everyone that he doesn’t turn 21 until June.

I’m excited to see what Lardis looks like when he gets another run with the Blackhawks.

• The IceHogs got goals from Lardis, Dominic Toninato, Gavin Hayes, Aidan Thompson, Rem Pitlick and the goal below — the first career pro goal from defenseman Taige Harding.

FIRST PRO GOAL ALERT https://t.co/Ei3hvG2ic6 pic.twitter.com/Gpit0v3mNx

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) February 15, 2026

• The IceHogs also got assists from Sam Rinzel, Ethan Del Mastro, Lardis and three apples from Toninato. Toninato posting a four-point game is a huge way to start the “second half” of the Hogs’ season.

• The United States was disappointingly lackadaisical in their win against Denmark on Saturday. Two of the three goals allowed weren’t great — and were from distance — but the overall effort was just mediocre. Brady Tkachuk and Jack Eichel were the only two guys who showed up ready to play three periods.

• Germany won’t let the US get away with that kind of effort. And, now, the Americans are fighting to maintain the No. 2 seed for the bracket with Canada in the driver’s seat.

• Here’s your men’s Olympic hockey schedule for Sunday, the final day of group play:

• Switzerland vs. Czechia — 5:10 AM CT
• Canada vs. France — 9:40 AM
• Denmark vs. Latvia — 12:10 PM
• United States vs. Germany — 2:10 PM

• In the three games in group play, Teuvo Teräväinen had one assist and was plus-two for Finland.

• Just a reminder that, in 2010, Jonathan Toews was penciled in as the fourth-line center for Canada. He then set the Canadian record for points in a single Olympics and was named the Best Forward in the tournament. Connor McDavid is chasing his record this weekend, and will probably break it soon. But Toews still owns that record (for now).

Most points with Canada – Single #Olympics with NHL players:
8- Jonathan Toews (2010)
7- Jarome Iginla (2002)
7- Joe Sakic (2002)
7- Iginla (2010)
7- Sidney Crosby (2010)
7- Dany Heatley ('10)
7- Ryan Getzlaf ('10)
6- Connor McDavid (2026 in 2 GP)
6- Eight other occurrences tied pic.twitter.com/V63DDtCbDZ

— StatsCentre (@StatsCentre) February 13, 2026

• In the college ranks, Julius Sumpf picked up another assist and John Mustard was credited with a team-leading eight shots on net in a 4-1 win for Providence over Northeastern.

• In the OHL last night, Marek Vanacker had an assist on a Caleb Malhotra power play goal and then scored into an empty net for a two-point night.

• AJ Spellacy didn’t play for Windsor last night. He was serving part of his two-game suspension from the OHL for a check to the head.

#OHL Disciplinary Action:

Windsor’s AJ Spellacy has been suspended for two games as a result of actions (Major, Checking to the Head) on Feb. 12th vs. Sarnia.

— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) February 13, 2026

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• The NBA had their all-star events last night.

• Why Tremaine Edmunds might be an offseason cap casualty

• Veterans Kyle Wright and Vince Velasquez are interesting additions to the Cubs’ pitching depth

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...llacy-suspended-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

How Did the Blackhawks Get Their Picks in the 2026 NHL Draft?

Since we’ve got some free time on our hands, how about a quick refresher for Blackhawks fans on how Chicago landed with the picks they currently own (could own) in the 2026 NHL Draft?

The Blackhawks will have either eight or nine picks in the 2026 NHL Draft, depending on where the Florida Panthers finish in the draft order. Six of those selections come in the first three rounds; Chicago owns 4/5 selections in the first two rounds.

Here are the Blackhawks’ owned selections for the 2026 NHL Draft, and how Chicago acquired them.

First Round​

• Chicago Blackhawks
• Florida Panthers (top-ten protected)

Second Round​

• Chicago Blackhawks
• Toronto Maple Leafs (acq. 2023 — McCabe/Lafferty trade)
• New York Islanders (acq. 2023 — Bailey trade)

Third Round​

• Chicago Blackhawks

Fourth Round​

• Ottawa Senators (acq. 2023 — Zaitsev trade)

Fifth Round​

• None (traded 2025 — to NSH in Weber trade)

Sixth Round​

• None (traded 2025 — to BUF for Lafferty)

Seventh Round​

• Chicago Blackhawks
• Florida Panthers (acq. 2025 — pick swap)

Also Read​

2026 NHL Draft: Every Team’s Lottery Odds at the Olympic Break

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/13/blackhawks-picks-2026-nhl-draft/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks Storylines to Watch After the Olympics

The Blackhawks will be back on the ice for an optional practice on Tuesday afternoon before a full practice (except Olympian Teuvo Teräväinen) on Wednesday. The Hawks’ first game after the Olympic break is in Nashville next Thursday night, beginning a sprint to the finish of the regular season — and the NHL Trade Deadline.

Chicago’s first four games after the break are on the road before returning home for what could shape up to be a fascinating home game on Friday, March 6 — the puck will drop a little more than five hours after the trade deadline. We’ll have to wait and see who’s still here when the Blackhawks host the tanking Canucks that night.

Here are the four storylines I’ll be following as the Blackhawks get back to work.

Brian Bradshaw Sevald-Imagn Images

1. Artyom Levshunov’s growth​

Levshunov took a seat before the Olympics to get a reset on his game. The expectation is that he’s back in his usual role with Wyatt Kaiser when the games begin again.

When Levshunov got the healthy scratch treatment earlier in the year, he responded very well and his play took off. He’s still only 20 years old — again, something to remember — but the Blackhawks have high expectations for him. How he comes out of the break will be important for the Blackhawks down the stretch this season.

With the Blackhawks figuring to have some veterans leaving before the trade deadline, Levshunov’s play will be important for the team on the ice now. But his development is still the primary concern. He’s still learning to play at the NHL level.

Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

2. Blackhawks center mix​

When Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar were both back in the lineup after their respective injuries, we saw the Blackhawks skating Bedard with other centers to take faceoffs — including Nazar. Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill said before the break that the team plans on putting Bedard back at center to take draws after the break, which means Nazar will likely slide back to his usual spot as center on the second line.

What does that mean for other youngsters Oliver Moore and Ryan Greene? Both have spent time at center and on the wing, with Moore specifically seeing his game really take off when he moved into the middle. Will the Blackhawks give Moore a look as a third-line center with more defensive responsibility? Will Greene see time in that role? Will… they both? Maybe together?

Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images

3. Who gets traded? And when?​

The Blackhawks have some players who will be popular commodities at the trade deadline. Defensemen Connor Murphy and Matt Grzelcyk are free agents after this season and will likely see their time in Chicago end before the trade deadline, though Kaiser’s knee situation may influence Grzelcyk’s timeline.

Up front, Jason Dickinson and Ilya Mikheyev both figure to be popular names before the trade deadline as well. They’re both exceptional defensive forwards — the kind of players teams that are going for it like to add before the deadline.

The Blackhawks also have an interesting trade candidate in captain Nick Foligno. Will he move on to help a contender? Or will he finish the season as the leader in the room in Chicago?

The fact that the Blackhawks have two remaining retention spots is big for their trade deadline plans. Murphy, Mikheyev, Foligno and Dickinson all have cap hits around $4M, so the Hawks being able to eat some of that will make them more affordable and easier for some of the top teams to acquire before the deadline.

With that in mind, there was some buzz before the Olympics that there could be movement quickly after the Olympic trade freeze lifts. Some teams understandably preferred to wait the three weeks to make a deal; they didn’t need to have those three weeks hitting their cap without any games being played. But there are only 12 days between the return to play and the deadline, so movement could come quickly.

Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

4. Who gets promoted? And when?​

When — and how much — the Blackhawks get active before the trade deadline will influence the answers to these questions.

The initial need may arise on the left side of the blue line because of Kaiser’s injury. Add to that if/when Grzelcyk departs, the Blackhawks will have at least one spot to fill. Will it be Kevin Korchinski or Ethan Del Mastro that gets the call first? They’re both RFAs this coming summer, and both should get a longer look down the stretch. One figures Sam Rinzel will be the guy who replaces Murphy on the blue line as a right-handed defenseman.

But after that, the line blender could get some work.

Nick Lardis showed well in his first run in the NHL and hasn’t slowed down since heading back to Rockford. But he’s more of an offensive threat; if the Blackhawks move out any of Dickinson, Foligno and/or Mikheyev, those are bottom-six roles that wouldn’t necessarily showcase Lardis’ abilities best.

As we get closer to the end of the regular season, there’s a chance we could see NHL debuts from Anton Frondell, Sacha Boisvert and, maybe, AJ Spellacy. Based on the college rankings right now, Boisvert might be the earliest available forward from that group. But, after a disappointing sophomore season that has had some injuries and a suspension for fighting included, will the Blackhawks have some pause in signing him and jumping him right into NHL action? Or is he more likely to be a candidate for an ATO with Rockford for the rest of the season with his entry-level contract beginning next year?

Or… will he opt to return to Boston University for another season?

Frondell’s timeline to join the Blackhawks depends on how deep into the playoffs his team can advance in Sweden — and how much the Blackhawks want him to play this season. Remember: he’s playing a full season at the highest level in Sweden and also played well at the World Junior Championship. It would be exciting to see him join the Hawks at some point, though.

Spellacy has already signed his entry-level contract and his combination of speed and physical play could make him an intriguing add to the Blackhawks’ bottom six down the stretch. That all depends on when Windsor’s season comes to an end as well, however.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...hawks-storylines-to-watch-after-the-olympics/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Olympics Playoffs, Kings’ Path Forward, West Scores, a Social EBUG, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

The Blackhawks will be back on the ice this week! Well, Teuvo Teräväinen is still in Milan with Finland, so he won’t be there. But the rest of his teammates will be on the ice at the artist-formerly-known-as Fifth Third Arena getting ready for 12 days of likely craziness between the Olympic trade freeze lifting and the NHL Trade Deadline. Yes, there are only 12 days between the trade freeze expiring and the trade deadline.

The women’s bracket at the Winter Olympics has reached the semifinal stage. Here’s your schedule for today’s action:

• USA vs. Sweden — 9:40 AM CT
• Canada vs. Switzerland — 2:10 PM

Here’s your bracket for the men’s hockey tournament at the Olympics. It re-seeds for the semifinals.

• Blackhawks prospect Mason West scored his second goal of the weekend for Fargo on Sunday.

Mason West cashes in on the rebound for his second goal of the weekend! pic.twitter.com/oJyfwuAINN

— Fargo Force (@FargoForce) February 16, 2026

• Scott Powers dropped a third part of his Mailbag series. He goes into some deep dive future finances in this one, so bring your calculator.

The third and final part of my Blackhawks mailbag https://t.co/HeVcyYzvZs

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) February 16, 2026

• The Los Angeles Kings made it officially official on Sunday: Kevin Fiala’s season is over. This sucks for the Kings at this stage in the season after they just traded for Artemi Panarin to go for it, but they have enough time (12 days after the Olympic trade freeze lifts) to make something happen before the NHL Trade Deadline.

An Update on Kevin Fiala pic.twitter.com/6StJDHX3XA

— LA Kings PR (@LAKingsPR) February 15, 2026

• I highly recommend following my guy Dennis Bernstein out of LA for his thoughts on the Kings’ path forward without Fiala. He was on a heater this weekend. And I tend to agree that the Kings already needed a depth center and a middle-six winger. Now, they likely need a second-line winger. And they don’t have a lot of assets to work with that are ideal to move out at this point beyond picks.

– Just went all in
– 15M projected deadline cap space, just lost top 6 winger.
– Division worst in NHL.
– 12-15 pick never plays with , 1st is going out in off season for C.
– LAK fan should be disappointed if nothing is done. https://t.co/WdVXAZha9o

— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) February 14, 2026

• Finally, this could have made for some incredible content but he had a job to do… instead of his… job…?

This might be one of the coolest stories of the hockey season

Matt Caldwell went from live tweeting the game to SITTING ON THE BENCH DRESSED by the second period

(via @SwampRabbits, @MattCaldwell_) pic.twitter.com/7c1Pks4ljA

— BarDown (@BarDown) February 16, 2026

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“Better and Better”: LeBron James is a Josh Giddey Fan

D’Marco Jackson Quietly Authored the Most Impressive Under-the-Radar Season

Are You Sleeping on the Cubs Catching Tandem? And Other Cubs Bullets

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...s-a-social-ebug-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks (Kinda) Update Wyatt Kaiser’s Status

The Blackhawks held their first (optional) practice coming out of the Olympic break on Tuesday afternoon. Defenseman Wyatt Kaiser, who suffered a lower-body injury just before the break, was not on the ice. That wasn’t news.

After the skate, Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill provided a somewhat cautious update on Kaiser’s status. He said Kaiser will not be available coming out of the break, but the coach does expect Kaiser to play again this season. That’s good news.

Kaiser, 23, ranks third among Blackhawks defensemen averaging 19:10 per game. He’s emerged as a key part of the Blackhawks’ exceptional penalty kill, averaging 2:00 per game short-handed.

Kaiser has also spent more ice time with Artyom Levshunov this season, helping the Blackhawks’ 20-year-old get comfortable in the NHL.

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Blackhawks Plan Without Kaiser​

One can assume Kaiser will be placed on IR coming out of the break to make room on the NHL roster for a replacement. With Kaiser expected to miss time on the left side of the blue line, the Blackhawks figure to have two primary options to recall from Rockford: Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro.

Who they recall may be influenced by the NHL trade deadline, which is just 12 days after the NHL returns to game action. But his injury should not affect the Blackhawks’ approach to the trade deadline.

Veteran Matt Grzelcyk, who is skating on a one-year, $1M deal — and, like Kaiser, is left-handed — could be dealt. He’s spent time on the Blackhawks’ second power play this season, which could create an opportunity for Korchinski.

If the Blackhawks move Connor Murphy sooner than later, that would likely mean Sam Rinzel would assume responsibilities on one of the power play units. Del Mastro would be more likely to supplement the Blackhawks’ penalty kill as a recall for Kaiser on the left side of the blue line.

Finding a defenseman who can play with Levshunov will need to be the priority, however. If Del Mastro can do that, he could find more of a role into the Blackhawks’ future as well.

Also Read​

Blackhawks Storylines to Watch After the Olympics

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/17/blackhawks-update-wyatt-kaisers-status/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks Prospect Stanislav Berezhnoy Suspended 20 Games by AHL

On Tuesday, the AHL announced Blackhawks prospect and Rockford IceHogs goaltender Stanislav Berezhnoy has been suspended for 20 games for violating the terms of the AHL/PHPA Performance Enhancing Substance Program.

“We were informed last week that Stanislav tested positive for a prohibited substance under the AHL/PHPA’s Performance Enhancing Substance Program,” Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson said. “While Stanislav did not knowingly take a prohibited substance, we believe his positive test is a result of a supplement he was consuming at the time. Stanislav has taken full responsibility for the situation and the organization praises him for the maturity and accountability he has shown. The Blackhawks organization fully supports Stanislav and knows he will use this as an opportunity to grow as he continues his development.”

In 15 appearances with Rockford this season, Berezhnoy has posted a 5-9-1 record with an .888 save percentage. The IceHogs have recalled Owen Flores from Indy.

Coachella Valley Firebirds forward David Goyette also received a 20-game suspension for the same reason.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...tanislav-berezhnoy-suspended-20-games-by-ahl/

 

[monster_masterpiece]

Very high rate of suspended games

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Olympics Hockey Drama: Three Overtimes! Sidney Crosby Hurt, Semifinals Set for Friday

If you enjoy good hockey, Wednesday was one helluva day at the Olympics! The quarterfinals of the men’s hockey tournament rolled off and gave us drama after drama after drama.

The first game of the day — before many of us were out of bed — saw Slovakia smoke Germany 6-2. The other three games on the Olympics slate didn’t match that four-goal differential combined.

[IMG width="610px" alt="Sidney Crosby injured
Canada
Olympics"]https://www.bleachernation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/image-149.png[/IMG]

Canada’s Olympics Dreams Advance… But Will Crosby?​

The second game of the day was Canada against Czechia. The heavily favored Canadians take a 2-1 deficit to the room after 20 minutes. The vibes went south even further when Sidney Crosby left the game with a lower-body injury in the second period. He hobbled off the ice and then went to the room. Canada’s captain did not return to the game.

But Canada was able to tie the game at two. Czechia took a 3-2 lead with just under eight minutes left in regulation; Canada tied the game off a brilliant Nick Suzuki tip with less than four minutes remaining. Canada won the game on a stunning backhand shot from Mitch Marner in overtime.

MITCH MARNER CALLS GAME IN OT.#WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/8nCO7eg2fa

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 18, 2026

The Blackhawks watched overtime in their dressing room after practice on Wednesday.

Finland’s Road to Olympics Gold Defense Continues​

The third game of the day saw Finland trailing 2-0 into the third period. Finland scored twice in the final seven minutes of regulation to tie the game, and ultimately won in overtime. Sebastian Aho and Miro Heiskanen scored Finland’s two goals in regulation. Blackhawks forward Teuvo Teräväinen skated 11:58 in the game.

Artturi Lehkonen was the hero in overtime for Finland.

DOWN 2-0 WITH SEVEN MINUTES LEFT IN THE THIRD, THE REIGNING GOLD MEDALISTS SURVIVE 3-2 IN OT.
WHAT A DAY FOR OLYMPIC HOCKEY. pic.twitter.com/vZPj4F4MMZ

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 18, 2026

Quinn Hughes the USA’s Olympics Hero​

Finally, the United States took the ice against Sweden in the fourth game on the Olympics schedule.

Tampa Bay Lightning superstar defenseman Viktor Hedman was on the bench for Sweden but didn’t take a single shift after reportedly suffering a lower-body injury during warm-ups. Devils forward Jesper Bratt also dressed for the game but was stapled to the bench for the entire first 40 minutes; he didn’t get a shift until the third period. Very odd coaching strategy.

The US took a 1-0 lead to the third, with Dylan Larkin scoring in the middle of the second period. The US out-shot Sweden 20-8 in the second period and Connor Hellebuyck was terrific. But Mika Zibanejad tied the game with less than 90 seconds left in regulation — forcing a third overtime period on the day.

For the Americans, Quinn Hughes was the hero in overtime.

QUINN HUGHES! USA WINS! pic.twitter.com/WxbCRKxPiO

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 18, 2026

Olympics Semifinals Set​

The men will take the day off on Thursday so the women from the USA and Canada can play for gold. But they’ll be back on the ice battling for the men’s gold medal game at the Olympics on Friday. As a reminder, the bracket resets after the quarterfinals.

• Canada will face Finland at 9:40 AM CT on Friday.
• The United States will face Slovakia at 2:10 PM CT on Friday.

While Finland is technically the “defending Olympics champion,” there obviously weren’t NHL players involved four years ago. That game should be a good one to start the day.

Meanwhile, Slovakia will look to pull off an upset and advance to the gold medal game. The United States is looking to win gold for the first time since the Miracle on Ice team in 1980.

While we know the date and times for the two semifinal games, we don’t know if Crosby will be back for Canada.

Sidney Crosby will undergo imaging here in Milan to determine the severity of his lower body injury.

Coach Jon Cooper said after the game on Crosby's status: “I don't even have my poker face on either, because I honestly don't know.”

— Emily Kaplan (@emilymkaplan) February 18, 2026

Also Read​

Blackhawks Players Were Glued to Canada-Czechia Overtime, Too

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/18/olympics-hockey-drama/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks College Prospects: Nestrašil Available? Providence Rolling

There are two teams with Blackhawks prospects in action this weekend across the NCAA landscape. With Adam Gajan still at the Olympics, he won’t be between the pipes for Minnesota-Duluth. Sacha Boisvert and BU are off this weekend. But there are four other compelling games to consider.

For me, the biggest question is whether or not Václav Nestrašil is available for UMass. He was playing so well before an upper-body injury suffered two weeks ago. UMass was off last weekend, so hopefully he’s back on the ice Friday night.

Here’s the when and where for the Blackhawks’ prospects who will be in action. I’m putting UMD back in the mix even though Gajan is still in Italy just in case you’re interested in what they’re up to in the NCHC.

Friday, Feb. 20​

No. 9 Minnesota-Duluth at Miami (OH) — 4:30 PM CT
No. 7 Providence at Vermont — 6 PM
New Hampshire at No. 19 UMass — 6 PM

Saturday, Feb. 21​

No. 9 Minnesota-Duluth at Miami (OH) — 5:05 PM
No. 19 UMass at New Hampshire — 6 PM
No. 7 Providence at Vermont — 6:30 PM

Blackhawks College Prospects​

• Václav Nestrašil, F, UMass — 26 games, 11 goals, 12 assists, 69 shots on goal, 11 blocked shots
• John Mustard, F, Providence — 29 games, 12 goals, 9 assists, 110 shots on goal, 10 blocked shots
• Julius Sumpf, C, Providence — 29 games, 3 goal, 16 assists, 66 shots on goal, 20 blocked shots
• Sacha Boisvert, C, Boston U. — 22 games, 3 goal, 13 assists, 46 shots on goal, 10 blocked shots
• Adam Gajan, G, Minnesota-Duluth — 26 games, 15-11-0, .905 save pct, 2.29 GAA, 2 shutouts

Note: Gajan is at the Olympics.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...pects-nestrasil-available-providence-rolling/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

USA vs. Canada, Bedard Talks Young Chicago Stars, Re-Ranking 2020, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

Before we jump into some Blackhawks news and notes, THE hockey event on the calendar for today is clearly the USA vs. Canada for the gold medal in the women’s Olympic tournament. It’s one of the truly great rivalries in all of sports, and this is the latest matchup with everything on the line. The US already beat Canada in the tournament, but they did it without Canada captain Marie-Philip Poulin in their lineup. It should be an epic game — these matchups are always worth watching, but with a gold medal on the line, tune in!

One last ride. IT'S GOLD MEDAL GAME DAY!!
The U.S. Olympic Women's Ice Hockey Team will play for gold today at 1:10 p.m. ET on USA Network and Peacock.#WinterOlympics game preview: https://t.co/D98mCtCOKA pic.twitter.com/RBSPzEMHh3

— USA Hockey (@usahockey) February 19, 2026

• The drama on the ice in Milan with the men’s quarterfinals was out of control. Three overtimes! The stage is set for an incredible semifinal round on Friday with the US facing Slovakia and Finland skating against Canada. I was in the room as we — Blackhawks players and media — watched Canada’s overtime win over Czechia.

Blackhawks Players Were Glued to Canada-Czechia Overtime, Too #blackhawkshttps://t.co/yc7JcOHoKz

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 18, 2026

• We’re going to have to wait to see if Sidney Crosby is available for Canada after suffering a lower-body injury in the second period against Czechia on Wednesday. On Thursday, Canada head coach Jon Cooper wasn’t definitive at all with his Crosby “update.”

Jon Cooper emphatic Team Canada hasn’t ruled out Sidney Crosby. Says it’s a day to day situation.
If Crosby doesn’t play Friday, Team Canada has to put a ‘C’ on another player. Cooper wouldn’t go there with us, because he’s not ready to rule Crosby out yet.

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) February 19, 2026

• Tina Nguyen of FOX 32 in Chicago talked to Connor Bedard after practice on Wednesday. His friendship with Caleb Williams, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Matas Buzelis came up. “We all take pride in Chicago sports, and we want to join everyone together,” Bedard said.

• From Blackhawks practice yesterday, head coach Jeff Blashill laughed when asked about going back to seven defensemen at some point after the break. He said they have made “zero” lineup decisions for upcoming games. He also joked that writers wouldn’t have a lot of lineup stuff to talk about between now and getting the full roster back — Teuvo Teräväinen‘s still at the Olympics — because of that.

• Frank Nazar no longer had the chin guard on his helmet at practice.

• Even with that being said, it was interesting that the Blackhawks had Kevin Korchinski and Sam Rinzel working together in drills. They were both recalled from Rockford before practice.

• The Blackhawks are working through some tweaks to their defensive approach at 5-on-5. We saw some glimpses of it at practice on Wednesday. Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill said the Hawks gave it a “test run” in Rockford earlier this month. Good breakdown of the changes here from Ben Pope.

The Blackhawks worked on an adjusted version of their 5v5 defensive system today.

They'll mimic what has worked so well on the PK by dialing up the pressure with their strong-side winger.

New story breaking down the changes: https://t.co/SrXS9AQiEa

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) February 18, 2026

• David St-Louis at Elite Prospects went back and re-ranked the players who came out of the 2020 NHL Draft. An important distinction: this wasn’t a re-draft. He was ranking the top players from that draft class and comparing current rankings to where the players were considered six years ago.

• He now ranks Wyatt Kaiser 30th in the class; he was ranked 51st overall in 2020. St-Louis also now ranks Louis Crevier 32nd in the class after not ranking him ahead of the class. Crevier was a seventh-round pick (No. 188 overall), so not being ranked isn’t a shocker. But here’s what St-Louis wrote about the late-round steal:

A relatively mobile 6-foot-8 defenceman, Louis Crevier intrigued our team in 2020, but we believed he would top out as a depth piece for an organization, considering his lack of defensive refinement and ability with the puck. Never did we anticipate that he would find himself on this list six years later.

Exceptionally tall players do need more time to develop.

Playing second-pair minutes, posting decent underlying numbers in a weak team, Crevier has established himself as a clear NHL asset. He’s the kind of piece that other teams would covet to build a playoff-ready back-end. He’s not yet that kind of physical, shutdown force, but as a late-bloomer, he may have a bit of development runway left, more than the other defencemen who fell out of the top-32.

• The Blackhawks’ first three picks in 2020 — Lukas Reichel, Drew Commesso and Landon Slaggert — were not ranked among the top 32 overall players from the draft class by St-Louis.

It's been nearly 6 years since the 2020 NHL Draft, and now many of its top prospects have turned into impact NHLers @DavidSt_Louis re-ranked the Top 32 prospects, and reflected on the lessons we've learned since then

Unlocked to read : https://t.co/0IDYfa28MF pic.twitter.com/fVssgD79nT

— Elite Prospects (@eliteprospects) February 18, 2026

• A good read from the men’s Olympic tournament here from Arpon Basu at The Athletic — on a player who could impact the Blackhawks’ draft in June. Alberts Šmits is a big, strong, left-handed defenseman whose stock has had a big up arrow next to it for some time. He showed very well at the Olympics. He might have played himself into top-five pick consideration in Milan. If the Blackhawks are still targeting top forwards early in the first round, more defensemen coming off the board early would be ideal. If Šmits is available when the Hawks are on the clock, it could be an interesting proposition as well.

A bit of NHL draft reading from Milan on 18-year-old Latvia defenceman Alberts Šmits, whose tournament ended Tuesday, but who left a big impression and might have rocketed up some NHL teams' draft boards with his performance here: “He has a swagger.”https://t.co/1IOr9tQgvT

— Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) February 18, 2026

• The Anaheim Ducks announced former Blackhawks goalie Petr Mrázek will miss the rest of the regular season after undergoing hip surgery Tuesday.

BLEACHER NATION: Go Ad Free | Subscribe to the BN Newsletter

• How did the Bears’ special teams grade out in 2025?

• It sounds like the Bulls are getting Josh Giddey back tonight vs. Toronto

• The Cubs are putting up giant bobbleheads around Chicago as part of a ticket giveaway

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...re-ranking-2020-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks Players Were Glued to Canada-Czechia Overtime, Too

Yes, the Blackhawks players are just like the rest of us.

When the Blackhawks’ first full practice of the Olympic break came to a close on Wednesday, many of the players quickly made their way to the room. And they, like the media members who joined them there, were glued to the television to watch overtime of Canada’s quarterfinal game against Czechia.

Blackhawks goaltender Spencer Knight, who’s American, was glued to the goaltending play of Jordan Binnington and Lukáš Dostál, asking a few of us to move out of the way so he could watch. Jason Dickinson was interested in the back-and-forth of the 3-on-3 overtime, even if Nick Foligno was chirping him about “the game” starting a few hours later (referring to the US against Sweden).

And when Mitch Marner scored the game-winning goal, they reacted like any other fan. Canadians like Colton Dach were hyped.

Marner pic.twitter.com/ObpvLmtaY9

— BucciOT.Com (@Buccigross) February 18, 2026

Yes, there were jokes made about the Maple Leafs…

I asked Frank Nazar if his experience playing for the USA at the World Championship after last year changed how he watches the Olympics. He said it has absolutely impacted his perspective. His appreciation for what the team is chasing is more after helping the US win gold at the Worlds for the first time.

Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill said he got to the coaches’ room just in time to see Canada tie the game.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...rs-were-glued-to-canada-czechia-overtime-too/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

NHL Trade Buzz: Updates on Buyers (Stars, Penguins, Kings) and Sellers (Rangers, Predators, Blues)

It’s semifinal day for the men’s bracket at the Winter Olympics. However, as some players start arriving back on North America to report back to their NHL clubs after elimination, there are trade rumors waiting for them. And other guys are starting to work their way back into game shape for the stretch run with a team they might leave at some point in the next two weeks.

The NHL’s Trade Deadline is Friday, March 6 at 2 PM CT. Yes, that’s two weeks from today. With teams getting back on the ice over the last couple days, the rumor mill has defrosted and there’s some percolating buzz again. So let’s jump into some of the latest buzz from around the NHL.

As a reminder: the NHL’s Olympic trade freeze expires on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 10:59 PM CT.

Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

NHL Buyers​

• David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period was on “Daily Faceoff Live” this week and talked about the Dallas Stars maybe making a bigger move sooner than later — and focused on them potentially adding a center and right-handed defenseman.

“We haven’t seen anything out of Dallas yet. We obviously know about Quinn Hughes going to Minnesota and they’re still looking for a center, but Dallas hasn’t pulled the trigger on a deal yet. We saw them do it early last season, on February 1st they made that deal with San Jose, bringing in [Mikael] Granlund and [Cody] Ceci. That’s still something that Jim Nill would like to do.

“Now, obviously Nill’s with Dubas and Armstrong and everybody out there in Milan, but he’s still working the phones a little bit and that’s going to amplify once he gets back. And I think Jim Nill is certainly somebody that would like to pull the trigger and add both. They’ve got a lot of cap space to play with.”

• For reference, the Stars traded picks in the first and fourth rounds of the 2025 NHL Draft to San Jose for Granlund and Ceci last year before the deadline. Earlier in the Olympic break I wrote about the Blackhawks potentially having the right pieces — center Jason Dickinson and RHD Connor Murphy — to line up for a deal with the Stars. Something to keep an eye on in Chicago.

• On the same episode of “Daily Faceoff Live,” Pagnotta talked about the Kings reacting to losing forward Kevin Fiala for the rest of the season to an injury at the Olympics.

“Even if Fiala was healthy and if nothing went down. So I’ve got to imagine they’re going to amplify their search now. They’ve got cap space, they can add that much more if they throw Fiala on season ending LTIR. I don’t know if it’ll get to that point because I don’t think they’re going to make that huge of a splash or make that many acquisitions, but adding at least one more forward up front. … Yes, they need a center. They need a top two center at the very least by next season. I don’t know if they necessarily pull that off now.”

• Josh Yohe of The Athletic wrote — before Sidney Crosby got hurt at the Olympics — that he believes Penguins GM Kyle Dubas could be a buyer before the NHL Trade Deadline in an effort to help bolster Pittsburgh’s playoff chances. Pagnotta recently reported the Pens are considering another extension for veteran forward Evgeni Malkin as well. The Penguins would likely look at dealing draft capital and not move anything off their NHL roster, according to Yohe.

• Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic wrote that the Bruins might be willing to listen on some of their pending free agents even though they’re in the playoff mix. Andrew Peeke and Viktor Arvidsson were mentioned, with Shinzawa saying the Bruins “would not be as quick to break up their second line if the return is for a mid- to late-round selection.” The Bruins’ pipeline leaves a lot to be desired. We’ll see how active they are with where they currently stand in the playoff picture — and owning Toronto’s first-round pick in 2026.

Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

NHL Sellers​

• I’ve previously written about the market for right-handed defensemen seemingly being led by Justin Faulk of the Blues. An interesting comment this week from Frank Seravalli on the Blues, who are expected to potentially sell big before the deadline:

“I think the price for a lot of the Blues’ players has turned people off, so Doug Armstrong is going to have to soften on that or else they’re going to be hanging on to their guys.”

• The New York Rangers have placed For Sale signs in front of every locker in the room (except maybe JT Miller?). Mollie Walker of The New York Post reported the San Jose Sharks are believed to be interested in defenseman Braden Schneider.

• Staying on the blue line with the Blue Shirts, player-turned-analyst Mike Rupp has thrown out there that defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov wants out of New York. Yes, the same Vladislav Gavrikov who signed a seven-year, $49M deal with the Rangers… 234 days ago. The left-handed defenseman just turned 30 in late November and was one of the hottest names at last year’s deadline. If a team is looking for a solid defenseman with term, he’s intriguing. It’s those already-committed seasons on the other side of his 35th birthday that would give me pause, however.

• In the latest episode of the “32 Thoughts” podcast, Elliotte Friedman reported there was buzz in Milan that Nashville’s ownership was at the Olympics but left before the medal round — and to keep an eye on the Predators being active before the deadline.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/20/nhl-trade-buzz-updates-feb-20/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

USA Women Win Gold! Knight’s Test, Foligno’s Future, Prospect Watch, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

Before we get rolling on some Blackhawks notes, if y’all missed missed either of the women’s medal-round games at the Olympics yesterday I am so, so sorry. The bronze medal game followed the lead of the final three men’s quarterfinals on Wednesday, going to overtime to get a decision.

But the gold medal game? With the USA somehow favored by 2.5 goals?!? You know it wasn’t going to be as easy as the first time they played with all the cards on the table. The US was down 1-0 late in the third, pulled their goalie and got a gorgeous redirect from the GOAT, Hilary Knight, to tie things with just over two minutes left in regulation.

In overtime, the hero was Megan Keller with one of the most ridiculous golden goals in any tournament anywhere in history. Truly a moment for the ages to end a fabulous game and an all-time dominant tournament for the USA.

A GOLDEN GOAL FOR GOLD! pic.twitter.com/oLDfElGnI9

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 19, 2026

• Good luck to the men following up that! The men’s semifinals are today, with Canada facing Blackhawks forward Teuvo Teräväinen and Finland at 9:40 AM CT. Then the United States faces Slovakia at 2:10 PM CT. The crazy reality: the four teams remaining in the men’s tournament have players on their rosters representing all 32 NHL teams.

• Spencer Knight will hopefully be on the USA roster in four years for the next Winter Olympics. But he closed out the pre-Olympic schedule with a little adversity — and he did that by choice. Interesting read here from Ben Pope on Knight testing himself before the break.

Spencer Knight battled through illness to start the Blackhawks' last two games before the break.

Why? For the most Knightian reason imaginable.

"I saw it as a test… Putting yourself in different situations is how you’re going to learn."

New story: https://t.co/LfTngd47T7

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) February 19, 2026

• Ryan Donato wasn’t at practice yesterday. His wife’s due date was right around now, so maybe another baby joining the Blackhawks family soon?

• Jason Dickinson left practice early because of an illness yesterday. The Olympic trade freeze hasn’t lifted yet, so no hug watch. Yet…

• Scott Powers talked to Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno about his present and future. What that future holds is still very much TBD.

Nick Foligno is committed to doing whatever he can for the Blackhawks, but he’s unsure what his future actually holds.

I talked to Foligno yesterday about the possibilities https://t.co/4pqfNobb2b

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) February 19, 2026

• Nice read here from Steven Ellis at Daily Faceoff recapping the WHL Prospect Game with notes on the prospects who stood out.

Who stood out in the inaugural @TheWHL Prospect Game?@SEllisHockey took a look at a handful of top 2026 #NHLDraft prospects who stood out on Wednesday:https://t.co/bdAp11lzL5

— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) February 19, 2026

Blackhawks Prospect Watch​

Here’s your where and when for Blackhawks prospect watching on Friday night:

• NCAA
  No. 7 Providence at Vermont — 6 PM
  New Hampshire at No. 19 UMass — 6 PM

• USHL
  Fargo Force at Lincoln Stars — 7:05 PM

• OHL
  Windsor at Kitchener — 7 PM

• WHL
  Kelowna at Kamloops — 9 PM

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Alex Bregman the Best Addition of the Offseason? Or the Most Painful Subtraction?

The Latest in the Bears Stadium Saga Has Indiana Making a Major Move

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...-prospect-watch-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks Sign Goalie Olivier Rodrigue to Two-Way Contract

On Saturday morning, the Blackhawks announced they have signed goaltender Olivier Rodrigue to a one-year, two-way contract for the duration of the 2025-26 season. The deal has a $775,000 NHL salary cap number.

Welcome to Chicago, Olivier

https://t.co/gadglocx3P pic.twitter.com/ycl4fbsw2M

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 21, 2026

From the team’s release:

Rodrigue, 25, appeared in two NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers during the 2024-25 campaign, logging a 0-1-0 record, a 3.10 goals-against average and a .862 save percentage. He also competed in a career-high 41 American Hockey League (AHL) games with the Bakersfield Condors last season, posting an 18-16-8 record, a 3.12 GAA, a .897 SV% and one shutout.

This deal is necessary because the AHL suspended Stanislav Berezhnoy for 20 games earlier this week. Rodrigue will work with Drew Commesso in Rockford for the rest of the season. It is interesting that the Blackhawks wouldn’t just sign someone to an AHL contract, however.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/21/blackhawks-sign-olivier-rodrigue/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

2026 NHL Mock Draft: Final Pre-Trade Deadline 2-Round Edition

As the Olympics draw to a dramatic conclusion, the NHL is starting to crank things back up here at home. The Olympic trade freeze expires just before midnight in the Eastern time zone on Sunday night, and games get started in just a few days. Which makes today a great time to update our 2026 NHL Mock Draft!

We’re less than two weeks away from the NHL Trade Deadline, so there could be movement in the draft order in our mock draft in the coming weeks. That movement likely won’t wait until the last minute at the deadline; there could be moves before the games begin again later this week. And there has been come movement already with prospects whose names will be called in June.

A couple reminders before we jump into our two-round mock draft. First, there are only 31 picks in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft. Ottawa forfeited their first-round pick because of the Evgenii Dadonov trade. Second, the standings reflected in the draft order are as of Feb. 5 — we’re giving the Florida Panthers ownership of the tenth overall selection in this mock draft. If they fall out of the top ten, the Chicago Blackhawks will own that selection.

Here’s our final 2026 NHL Mock Draft before the NHL trade Deadline. And it’s two rounds! Let’s go!

[IMG width="688px" alt="Ivar Stenberg Sweden 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship
mock draft"]https://www.bleachernation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Ivar-Stenberg-IIHF.jpg[/IMG]
IIHF

2026 NHL Mock Draft — First Round​

1. Vancouver Canucks — Ivar Stenberg, RW, Frölunda (SHL)
2. St. Louis Blues — Keaton Verhoeff, RHD, North Dakota (NCAA)
3. New York Rangers — Gavin McKenna, LW, Penn State (NCAA)
4. Winnipeg Jets — Caleb Malhotra, C, Brantford (OHL)
5. Calgary Flames — Chase Reid, RHD, Soo (OHL)
6. Chicago Blackhawks — Tynan Lawrence, C, Muskegon (USHL)
7. New Jersey Devils — Alberts Šmits, LHD, Jukurit (Liiga)
8. Nashville Predators — Carson Carels, LHD, Prince George (WHL)
9. San Jose Sharks — Daxon Rudolph, RHD, Prince Albert (WHL)
10. Florida Panthers — Ethan Belchetz, LW, Windsor (OHL)
11. Los Angeles Kings — Oliver Suvanto, C, Tappara (Liiga)
12. Philadelphia Flyers — Viggo Björck, C, Djurgårdens (SHL)
13. Washington Capitals — Ryan Lin, RHD, Vancouver (WHL)
14. San Jose Sharks (from EDM) — Malte Gustafsson, LHD, HV71 U18 (U18 Region)
15. Boston Bruins (from TOR) — Oscar Hemming, LW, Boston College (NCAA)
16. Utah Mammoth — Xavier Villeneuve, LHD, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
17. Seattle Kraken — JP Hurlbert, LW, Kamloops (WHL)
18. Anaheim Ducks — Nikita Klepov, RW, Saginaw (OHL)
19. Columbus Blue Jackets — Ilya Morozov, C, Miami (OH) University (NCAA)
20. New York Islanders — Juho Piiparinen, RHD, Tappara (Liiga)
21. Calgary Flames (from VGK) — Adam Novotný, LW, Peterborough (OHL)
22. Boston Bruins — Egor Shilov, C, Victoriaville (QMJHL)
23. Buffalo Sabres — Elton Hermansson, W, MoDo (HockeyAllsvenskan)
24. Detroit Red Wings — Marcus Nordmark, RW, Djurgårdens (SHL)
25. Pittsburgh Penguins — Wyatt Cullen, RW, USNTDP
26. Montreal Canadiens — Adam Goljer, RHD, HK Dukla Trencin (Slovakia)
27. Vancouver Canucks (from MIN) — William Håkansson, LHD, Luleå (SHL)
28. Carolina Hurricanes (from DAL) — Alexander Command, C, Örebro U20 (U20 Nationell)
29. New York Rangers (from CAR) — Ryan Roobroeck, C, Niagara (OHL)
30. Seattle Kraken (from TB) — Nikita Shcherbakov, LHD, Tolpar Ufa (MHL)
31. New York Islanders (from COL) — Liam Ruck, RW, Medicine Hat (WHL)

2026 NHL Mock Draft — Second Round​

32. Vancouver Canucks — Mathis Preston, LW
33. Columbus Blue Jackets (from STL) — Giorgos Pantelas, RHD
34. Utah Mammoth (from NYR) — Simas Ignatavicius, C
35. Pittsburgh Penguins (from WPG) — Maddox Dagenais, C
36. Calgary Flames — Brooks Rogowski, C
37. Chicago Blackhawks — Tomas Chrenko, C
38. New Jersey Devils — Niklas Aaram-Olsen, LW
39. Nashville Predators — Jack Hextall, C
40. Vancouver Canucks (from SJ) — Axel Elofsson, RHD
41. Florida Panthers — Jakub Vaněček, LHD
42. Los Angeles Kings — Beckham Edwards, C
43. Philadelphia Flyers — Alessandro Di Iorio, C
44. Florida Panthers (from WSH) — Tobias Trejbal, G
45. Edmonton Oilers — Vladimir Dravecky, RHD
46. Utah Mammoth (from OTT) — Jaxon Cover, LW
47. Chicago Blackhawks (from TOR) — Landon Amrhein, RW
48. Utah Mammoth — Charlie Morrison, LHD
49. Seattle Kraken — Casey Mutryn, C
50. Anaheim Ducks — Pierce Mbuyi, LW
51. Los Angeles Kings (from CBJ) — Adam Valentini, C
52. Chicago Blackhawks (from NYI) — Yaroslav Fedoseyev, RHD
53. Vegas Golden Knights — Gleb Pugachyov, LW
54. Boston Bruins — Ryder Cali, C
55. Ottawa Senators (from BUF) — Victor Plante, LW
56. Detroit Red Wings — Lars Steiner, C
57. Pittsburgh Penguins — Luke Schairer, RHD
58. Montreal Canadiens — Oscar Holmertz, C
59. Nashville Predators (from MIN) — Ben MacBeath, LHD
60. Dallas Stars — Braidy Wassilyn, LW
61. New York Rangers (from CAR) — Tomas Galvas, LHD
62. Tampa Bay Lightning — Vilho Vanhalto, RW
63. San Jose Sharks (from COL) — Chase Harrington, LW

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/22/2026-nhl-mock-draft-pre-trade-deadline/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Jack Hughes Scores the Golden Goal! USA Beats Canada 2-1 in the 2026 Winter Olympics Gold Medal Game

Exactly 46 years to the day since the United States last claimed gold at the Winter Olympics — yes, the Miracle on Ice team — they faced Canada for gold in Milan. After an awesome tournament in which both teams had their share of highs and lows, the gold medal game we all wanted came to fruition.

Well, almost. The only thing missing from the two incredibly talented rosters was Sidney Crosby. Canada’s captain wasn’t able to play because of the lower-body injury he suffered in the quarterfinal round.

Amber Searls-Imagn Images

First Period​

Both of these teams came to the Olympics build around speed, and it showed early. For Canada, Tom Wilson was hitting anything he could reach right away. Connor Hellebuyck was terrific early between the pipes for the USA.

Matt Boldy of the Minnesota Wild gave the USA a 1-0 lead exactly six minutes into the first period.

THE USA STRIKES FIRST. MATT BOLDY PUTS THE AMERICANS ON THE BOARD. pic.twitter.com/oO5Am72qa7

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 22, 2026

With an assist on Boldy’s goal, Quinn Hughes tied the USA Hockey record for most points an an Olympics tournament involving NHL players with eight. It was his seventh assist of the tournament, which broke the USA record for Olympics with NHL participation.

The United States took that one-goal lead to the room after 20 minutes of the gold medal game at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Both teams had eight shots on net in the first period; Jordan Binnington only stopped seven. Canada’s forwards weren’t getting any room to work in their offensive zone. On the other side of the ice, the US probably passed instead of shooting about five Grade A chances.

[IMG width="696px" alt="Connor Hellebuyck
USA Hockey
2026 Olympics"]https://www.bleachernation.com/wp-c...2/Connor-Hellebuyck_USATSI_28313612.jpg[/IMG]
Mike Segar/Reuters via Imagn Images

Second Period​

Canada came out of the room and dominated the first half of the second period. They had the US on their heels, hemmed in and just trying to get the puck out of the zone at times. Hellebuyck and the defenders in front of him kept the lead in spite of the onslaught. In the middle of the period, Connor McDavid got a breakaway but Hellebuyck said hell no.

CONNOR HELLEBUYCK COMES UP HUGE TO DENY MCDAVID. pic.twitter.com/bV0sxh8GiG

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 22, 2026

Unfortunately, for the US, they went short-handed seconds later… and then took another penalty less than 30 seconds into the power play, giving Canada a 5-on-3 for 93 seconds. The US killed BOTH penalties, thanks in large part to incredible work specifically by Dylan Larkin, Brock Nelson and Brock Faber. An enormous spot to come up big. The USA’s commitment to blocking shots in front of Hellebuyck was unreal.

The US kept playing with fire and it cost them the lead. Cale Makar was finally able to break the ice for Canada and tie the game late in the period.

CALE MAKAR FOR CANADA. ALL TIED UP IN THE GOLD MEDAL GAME. pic.twitter.com/UZ6frtsWeG

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 22, 2026

Canada out-shot the US 19-8 in the second period, and the gold medal game at the 2026 Winter Olympics headed to the third period tied at one.

Third Period​

Hellebuyck was busy again to start the third period, and made a couple big saves on a Macklin Celebrini breakaway to keep the game tied. He was magnificent, and got some help from his skaters (including Charlie McAvoy with a huge blocked shot at one point).

Shots were 10-4 in favor of Canada — with a few moments in which I really have no clue how they didn’t take the lead — when the United States for a four-minute power play with 6:34 left in regulation after Sam Bennett hit Jack Hughes in the face with a high stick. Not only did Canada kill off the first 3:11 of the Bennett penalty, but Jack Hughes killed the rest and gave Canada a power play with a tripping call late in regulation. Neither power play did anything and this game needed overtime.

[IMG width="686px" alt="Jack Hughes
USA Olympics"]https://www.bleachernation.com/wp-c.../Jack-Hughes_USATSI_28314086-scaled.jpg[/IMG]
James Lang-Imagn Images

Overtime​

Both sides had some good looks early in overtime. McDavid drove the net and Hellebuyck made a save. The puck cleared and the US had a 3-on-1, but had to get to the loose puck. They barely did and Jack Hughes buried the golden goal to win the United States their first gold medal in the Olympics since 1980!

JACK HUGHES DELIVERS AMERICA'S GOLDEN MOMENT IN OVERTIME. pic.twitter.com/4foFDOri53

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 22, 2026

Hellebuyck was the best player in the game by a mile. He made 40 saves.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blackhawks/2026/02/22/2026-winter-olympics-gold-usa-1-canada-0/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Bronze for Teuvo, Greene’s Reset, Trades Coming, Prospect Highlights, and Other Blackhawks Bullets

On Sunday it’s all about the gold medal game at the Winter Olympics. The only NHL-roster member of the Blackhawks at the Games, Teuvo Teräväinen, is bringing a bronze medal back to Chicago after Finland beat Slovakia on Saturday.

hey siri, play ‘Teuvo maanteiden kuningas’

Congratulations to Teuvo and all of Team Finland on winning the bronze medal
#MilanoCortina2026 #WinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/ZJQKWc2eZ5

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 21, 2026

• A good read here from Kalen Lumpkins of the Chicago Tribune on Ryan Greene being a healthy scratch before the Olympic break and getting a much-needed reset. I appreciated head coach Jeff Blashill’s comments about Greene taking a brief step back in his first professional season.

“The schedule is nothing that he’s seen in any level that he’s played, it’s just the reality,” Blashill said. “No junior league, no college league, no American Hockey League — none of those prepare you for what you’ve gone through.

“Seems like his confidence is in a good spot. Confidence matters a lot. So hopefully you can carry that forward from the next three practices into next Thursday.”

Ryan Greene's healthy scratch in Columbus came as a surprise to many, but the rookie took the benching in stride.

It just added to his excitement to get back on the ice in the Hawks' next game in Nashville and beyondhttps://t.co/9SZJjw4KdL

— Kalen Lumpkins (@kalenalumpkins) February 21, 2026

• I’m at least a little interested the more I think about the Blackhawks signing depth goalie Olivier Rodrigue on Saturday. I understand if the Blackhawks don’t want Owen Flores to be their backup option in Rockford while Stanislav Berezhnoy is serving his 20-game suspension. And it’s certainly not a deal-breaker for the Blackhawks, who have 41 contracts on their books (50 is the max). Arvid Söderblom is signed thru next season and Drew Commesso is an RFA this summer, but has played well enough to earn an extension. Why a two-way deal and not just an AHL contract with the IceHogs?

• Good read here from Ben Pope with a reminder that the Blackhawks will be selling in the next two weeks — but not giving anything away. The goal is to make room for a few young guys to get NHL ice time before the end of the regular season.

The NHL roster freeze lifts tomorrow night, and the trade deadline is less than two weeks away.

It's that time of year.

What moves will the Blackhawks make before the deadline? Here's what I think: https://t.co/RagRPWmk6V

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) February 21, 2026

• David Pagnotta at The Fourth Period reported this weekend that Jordan Kyrou being traded out of St. Louis is more of a when question than if. Kyrou owns a full no-move clause, but Pagnotta reports he would happily waive it for the right change of scenery. Whether it’s before the March 6 trade deadline or over the summer, it appears Kyrou will be moved out by the Blues at some point.

• Another potential injury problem coming home from the Olympics: Mikko Rantanen did not play in the bronze medal game because of a lower-body injury. Elliotte Friedman reported on Saturday that it isn’t season-ending, but there’s still obviously some concern for the Dallas Stars here.

• ICYMI Gavin McKenna went ahead and added to his numbers in a big way on Friday night. He scored once and added seven (7!) assists for an 8-point night against Ohio State. Coming into the weekend, McKenna had 33 points in 26 games. His stat line is looking increasingly like the guy we expected to be a top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. The 8-point game is the second-biggest individual line in Big Ten hockey history. McKenna had an assist and scored the overtime game-winner on Saturday night, giving him 10 points against the Buckeyes this weekend. I still have McKenna going in the top three overall in my latest mock draft. Here’s a highlight clip of his big Friday night performance.

That’s 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 points for Gavin McKenna against Ohio State.

Here’s the highlight pack:https://t.co/9iZQbCrWfV pic.twitter.com/jI0j8G0sLS

— Scott Wheeler (@scottcwheeler) February 21, 2026

Blackhawks Prospect Watch​

• In the WHL last night, Nathan Behm scored again for Kamloops. He’s up to 34 goals and 78 points in 56 games on the season.

Saturday night for #Blackhawks prospect Nathan Behm for @blazerhockey

pic.twitter.com/qMWLKkHjjz

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

• In the OHL last night, Marek Vanacker had two assists for Brantford. Vanacker now has 39 goals and 67 points in 49 games this season.

• Jack Pridham scored this power play goal for Kitchener last night. He also had an assist on the game-winning goal (also on the power play). Pridham now has 36 goals and 74 points in 55 games this season.

Saturday night from #Blackhawks prospect Jack Pridham for @OHLRangers

pic.twitter.com/8cSRKt62SR

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

• At the college level, John Mustard scored again on Saturday night, his 13th of the season. Providence beat Vermont 5-3.

Saturday night from #Blackhawks prospect John Mustard for @FriarsHockey

pic.twitter.com/xVmlc59t0S

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

• Finally, Gavin Hayes recorded a hat trick for Rockford last night. He now has four multi-goal games this season.

Saturday night for #Blackhawks prospect Gavin Hayes for @goicehogs

pic.twitter.com/3GcpyGUBwo

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

How about for #Blackhawks prospect Gavin Hayes on Saturday night for @goicehogs ??

pic.twitter.com/Fa24yHUQbc

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

Saturday night trick

for #Blackhawks prospect Gavin Hayes for @goicehogs

pic.twitter.com/XHPBrQEqtp

— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) February 22, 2026

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Cubs Prospect Notes: Wiggins, Kipps, Lovich, Flanagan, ZiPS, More

Even in a Blowout, Dillingham Struggles to Get Minutes: Pistons 126, Bulls 110 – February 21, 2026

Jaylon Johnson Showed So Much Toughness Despite Injury-Shortened 2025

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...pect-highlights-and-other-blackhawks-bullets/

 

[Chicago Blackhawks]

Blackhawks Give Positive Update on Wyatt Kaiser

We got some good news from Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill after practice on Monday.

Blashill said defenseman Wyatt Kaiser is expected to start skating in the next few days. That’s a good sign that he won’t be out very far beyond the Blackhawks resuming games on Thursday.

It’s also great news for the organization with the NHL Trade Deadline less than two weeks away. As I previously wrote, Kaiser’s injury should not affect the Blackhawks’ approach to the trade deadline. If he’s able to return sooner than later, the Blackhawks should feel more comfortable moving veteran left-handed defenseman Matt Grzelcyk before the deadline.

At practice on Monday, the defensive pairs the Blackhawks were working were:

Alex Vlasic — Louis Crevier
Connor Murphy — Sam Rinzel
Matt Grzelcyk — Artyom Levshunov
Kevin Korchinski

You can imagine Kaiser sliding into the spot occupied in those pairs by Murphy when he’s ultimately traded out of Chicago in the coming days. Korchinski and Rinzel spent time together in Rockford and could also skate as a tandem as well.

Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/blac...ckhawks-give-positive-update-on-wyatt-kaiser/