As the Chicago Blackhawks’ 2023-24 season came to a close, attention quickly shifted to the upcoming season, with fans wondering when the team will finally make the playoffs. After enduring a seven-year playoff drought (aside from the 2020 Edmonton bubble playoffs) and being in the midst of a full rebuild, the path to the playoffs still seems challenging for the Blackhawks.
Yet, there’s some optimism. In April, players Nick Foligno and Taylor Hall expressed confidence in the team’s playoff prospects for the next season. However, General Manager Kyle Davidson remains skeptical. With free agency and the 2024 NHL Draft behind us, can the Blackhawks prove Davidson wrong?
What the Blackhawks Have Said:
– Taylor Hall: “Our goal is to play meaningful games at the end of the season. While we’re not expecting a Cup run next year, having fresh faces and possibly adding pieces at the trade deadline to push for the playoffs would be a positive and realistic step.”
– Nick Foligno: “I don’t want us to settle for a modest improvement. I think aiming to compete for the playoffs towards the end of the season is a realistic goal.”
– Kyle Davidson: “I’m not sure how realistic a playoff or Cup run is for us next year. It’s a tough league, and a significant jump in the standings is challenging. We need to improve and take a step forward.”
Current State of the Blackhawks:
The team has indeed added new players, including six forwards, one goalie, and two defensemen. With the addition of scoring points from Teuvo Teräväinen and Tyler Bertuzzi, and solid goaltending from Laurent Brossoit, there’s potential. On defense, Alec Martinez and T.J. Brodie bring experience, though they’ve had recent struggles. Prospects like Frank Nazar and Wyatt Kaiser are also in the mix.
The chance of making the playoffs depends on several factors: maintaining player health, achieving balance in goalkeeping, continued development of Connor Bedard, and chemistry among key players. If these elements fall into place, the Blackhawks could potentially vie for a Wild Card spot, though it remains uncertain.
Is There a Chance?
There’s always a possibility. Last season, the Washington Capitals, despite a poor goal differential, made the playoffs. If a team in the Central Division falters, the Blackhawks could find themselves in contention. While it’s a long shot, surprises do happen in the NHL.
Overall, even if everything aligns perfectly, making the playoffs next season may still be a stretch. However, as Foligno pointed out, belief and determination can drive success. The Blackhawks’ active summer has earned them some outside attention, and if they become more competitive, who knows what could happen?