From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 20s
Blackhawks' Season Trajectory
Blackhawks' season could mirror 2025-26 Sharks or 2021-22 Hawks.
In brief
Blackhawks' season could mirror 2025-26 Sharks or 2021-22 Hawks. Blackhawks' season may follow a path similar to the Sharks' 2025-26 turnaround or the Hawks' 2021-22 collapse. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Blackhawks' Season Trajectory
Blackhawks begin seven-game home stand Saturday that could determine season trajectory.
Current Performance
At 1-4-0, Blackhawks improved play in last two games after struggling early.
2025-26 Sharks Trajectory
Sharks lost first six games last season before becoming NHL's most-improved team.
Sharks' Improvement
Sharks had 37.0% expected-goals ratio and 40.4% scoring-chance ratio during five-on-five play.
Sharks' Turnaround
Sharks won 6-5 overtime against Rangers to start 8-2-1 hot streak.
2021-22 Hawks Trajectory
Hawks lost first nine games before being 1-9-2 on Nov. 6 when coach Jeremy Colliton was fired.
2021-22 Hawks Analytics
Hawks had 41.0% expected-goals ratio and 43.3% scoring-chance ratio when Colliton was fired.
2021-22 Hawks Outcome
Hawks finished 28-42-12 after interim coach Derek King took over.
2026-27 Hawks Possibilities
Blackhawks could follow Sharks' 2025-26 path or 2021-22 Hawks' collapse trajectory.
Key Factors
Blackhawks' chemistry, Artyom Levshunov and Anton Frondell development, and Connor Bedard's potential return matter.
What Happens Next
Coming weeks will clarify if Blackhawks season follows Sharks' turnaround or 2021-22 collapse path.
What it means
Blackhawks' season may follow a path similar to the Sharks' 2025-26 turnaround or the Hawks' 2021-22 collapse.
