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Chicago Blackhawks look to youth for performance gains during 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 7:15 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Chicago Blackhawks look to youth for performance gains during 2026 season

Summary

The Chicago Blackhawks enter the 2026 season aiming to end a six-season postseason drought. The team must navigate the early months without forward Connor Bedard, who is recovering from July shoulder surgery until mid-November. As one of the youngest rosters in the NHL, the organization relies on developing its deep prospect pool to achieve competitiveness. Management is monitoring several players for breakout performances, including Anton Frondell and KHL scoring leader Roman Kantserov. Other roster players like Oliver Moore and Sam Rinzel are expected to handle expanded roles as the defensive unit incorporates new personnel.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Connor Bedard remains out until mid-November following July shoulder surgery.
•Anton Frondell, Roman Kantserov, and Oliver Moore are among the top breakout candidates.
•The Blackhawks are tied for the third-longest active postseason drought in the league.
•Chicago ranked as the second-youngest team in the NHL during the 2025-26 season.

Latest Updates

7:15 PMYahoo Sports — Who Are the Chicago Blackhawks Top Breakout Candidates?

What they're saying

"
The Chicago Blackhawks are tired of losing. Tied for the third-longest active postseason drought in the NHL at six seasons, the Blackhawks are trying to prove that the rebuild is nearing completion and that they’re ready to make big strides this year to become competitive. With Connor Bedard absent until mid-November after undergoing shoulder surgery […] The post Who Are the Chicago Blackhawks Top Breakout Candidates? appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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