Optimism heading into the Chicago Blackhawks’ season was as high as it’s been since CHGO launched in 2022.

An influx of new talent like Bowen Byram and Roman Kantserov, along with the return of franchise legend Patrick Kane, had fans excited. Even with newly anointed captain Connor Bedard out of the lineup to start the season, fans were excited for the new year.

The expectations of both the fanbase and us on the CHGO Blackhawks Podcast were set higher because of what we heard from the team. Since the end of last season, we’ve heard that this team expects to compete for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. National writers and even fans on social media didn’t plant that idea.

It came from general manager Kyle Davidson, coach Jeff Blashill and every player in the Blackhawks locker room.

Unlock Your Full Chicago Blackhawks Experience

This premium content is a Chicago Blackhawks Diehard exclusive.

Diehard Level 1

$36 /year

Most Popular

Diehard Pro Level

$80 /year

Diehard Premium Level

$119 /year