NHL 2026-27 Schedule Release: Key Games for the Chicago Blackhawks

The NHL has unveiled its 2026-27 season schedule, expanding to an 84-game regular season for the first time. This season includes significant events like the Heritage Classic featuring the Montreal Canadiens against the Winnipeg Jets and the Winter Classic between the Utah Mammoth and Colorado Avalanche. The Chicago Blackhawks have a noteworthy event: the 2026 NHL Global Series against the Ottawa Senators at the PSD Bank Dome in Düsseldorf, Germany, on December 18 and 20.

The Blackhawks have adjusted their home game start times to 7 p.m., with weekend games starting at 6 p.m. or earlier. They will also have two seven-game homestands from October 10-27 and February 17-March 1. Key questions loom regarding the team’s performance during Connor Bedard’s absence, the appearance of former players at the United Center, and their position at the season’s end.

Eight Games to Watch in 2026-27

September 29: At Vegas Golden Knights, 9:30 p.m.

The Blackhawks will start their season on the road for the ninth consecutive year at T-Mobile Arena. Connor Bedard will miss this game and at least the first month due to left shoulder surgery. Frank Nazar and Anton Frondell are expected to fill the first- and second-line center roles, allowing them to adapt to increased responsibilities. Roman Kantserov is anticipated to make his NHL debut against the Golden Knights. Since their debut in 2017-18, the Golden Knights have dominated the Hawks with a 17-3-4 all-time record and a 4-1 first-round playoff series win in 2020.

October 3: At Buffalo Sabres, 6 p.m.

Blackhawks defenseman Bowen Byram will soon return to his former home stadium in his third game with Chicago during Buffalo’s home opener. Having signed a six-year, $75 million extension, Byram is now the highest-paid defenseman in the league. Although grateful for his time in Buffalo, he looks forward to the new opportunities in Chicago. Byram will assume a top-defenseman role, a chance not available to him previously, prompting his trade to Chicago. Buffalo handily defeated Chicago in the 2025-26 season with a 9-3 win and a 5-1 victory.

November 17: Vs. Toronto Maple Leafs, 6:30 p.m.

Toronto’s left wing Gavin McKenna, the 2026 No. 1 draft pick, will visit Chicago to play against cousin Bedard — if Bedard is back from injury. McKenna will utilize insights from Bedard for these high-pressure NHL matchups. McKenna has stated that he values Bedard’s advice on handling media attention and maintaining confidence through challenges.

December 6: Vs. Edmonton Oilers, 6 p.m.

Blackhawks traded Jason Dickinson, Connor Murphy, and Colton Dach to the Oilers, receiving Andrew Mangiapane and picks in return. Murphy, Dickinson, and Dach stayed with Connor McDavid’s team before an early playoff elimination. They will revisit the United Center on December 6. Murphy has spent nine seasons with Chicago, Dickinson four seasons, and Dach was a 2021 second-round pick.

December 18-20: Vs. Ottawa Senators, noon & 7 a.m.

The Global Series marks Blackhawks’ first international games since a loss to the Philadelphia Flyers in Prague in 2019. Previously, Chicago split a series with the Florida Panthers in Helsinki during 2009.

January 30: At San Jose Sharks, 3 p.m.

A clash of No. 1 picks Bedard and Macklin Celebrini promises excitement; this match precedes the All-Star break. Bedard faced a losing streak before last season’s Olympic break. Chicago was 22-26-9 at that time, winning just seven remaining games. This game may feature No. 2 pick Ivar Stenberg, a Swedish forward sought by Chicago, with a rematch in San Jose on February 10 following the break.

March 28: Vs. Seattle Kraken, 2 p.m.

Chicago hosts Seattle in a matinee, entering the final stretch of six games. In 2025-26, Chicago was eliminated from playoff contention after five straight losses, including one against Edmonton, highlighting former players’ impact. The Blackhawks aim to advance toward playoffs instead of finishing a disappointing season.