The NHL has announced an expanded 84-game schedule for the 2026-27 season. This increase marks a significant change in the league’s format. Among the anticipated events are the Heritage Classic featuring the Montreal Canadiens and Winnipeg Jets and the Winter Classic with the Utah Mammoth against the Colorado Avalanche.
One notable highlight for the Chicago Blackhawks is their participation in the 2026 NHL Global Series. They will face the Ottawa Senators on December 18 and 20 at the PSD Bank Dome in Düsseldorf, Germany. For the upcoming season, Chicago Blackhawks have adjusted their home game schedules. Weeknight games will start at 7 p.m., while weekend games will begin earlier, at 6 p.m. or before. The team also has two significant seven-game homestands scheduled between October 10-27 and February 17-March 1.
Key Matchups for the Blackhawks
September 29: At Vegas Golden Knights
The Blackhawks begin their season on the road against the Vegas Golden Knights, marking the ninth consecutive year they have opened away. Star player Connor Bedard will not play as he recovers from shoulder surgery. With Bedard absent, Frank Nazar and Anton Frondell will likely take top roles at center. Roman Kantserov, 21, is set to make his debut in this match. Historically, the Golden Knights have dominated this matchup, holding a 17-3-4 advantage over the Blackhawks.
October 3: At Buffalo Sabres
Newly extended defenseman Bowen Byram returns to face his former team, Buffalo Sabres, in their home opener. Byram, who signed a $75 million contract, joins the Hawks to fill a leading defenseman role. The Sabres were dominant in recent encounters with the Blackhawks, winning one game 9-3 and another 5-1 last season.
November 17: Vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
Another exciting matchup sees Gavin McKenna, the Maple Leafs’ top draft pick, visiting Chicago. McKenna’s first visit to face his cousin Bedard will be a key test. McKenna is eager to prove himself and will rely on the lessons shared by Bedard regarding media pressures and the importance of confidence in hockey.
December 6: Vs. Edmonton Oilers
Blackhawks face the return of Jason Dickinson, Connor Murphy, and Colton Dach, now with the Oilers. These players were part of a trade deal that brought Andrew Mangiapane to Chicago. Their return will test the Hawks’ aspirations for playoff success.
December 18 and 20: Vs. Ottawa Senators (Global Series)
The Blackhawks will play overseas in Germany, their first international appearance in seven years. Past performances in foreign games, such as the historic series in Finland and the loss in Prague, set a challenging standard.
January 30: At San Jose Sharks
Featuring No. 1 pick Connor Bedard against Macklin Celebrini, this game comes just before the All-Star break. It offers a chance to recover from the previous year’s poor run ahead of the Olympics. Additionally, fans will witness Ivar Stenberg, a promising Swedish talent, play against them.
March 28: Vs. Seattle Kraken
With only six games left in the season, the Blackhawks aim to be competitive. Avoiding the late-season slump from previous years is crucial. Their performance here may impact their playoff chances.