# Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward in loss to Islanders

> Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward in loss to Islanders.
- Title: Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward in loss to…
- Summary: Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward in loss to Islanders. blackhawks, islanders, nhl · reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
- Keywords: blackhawks, islanders, nhl, frank nazar, ilya sorokin, jeff blashill, dominic toninato, patrick kane, united center, 2027, news, local
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/blackhawks/2026/10/08/blackhawks-islanders-improved-performance-nhl
- Published: 2026-10-09T03:00:11.631+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: blackhawks, islanders, nhl, frank nazar, ilya sorokin, jeff blashill, dominic toninato, patrick kane, united center, 2027, news, local
## Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward
The Hawks generated the majority of scoring chances Thursday but lost 4-1 to the Islanders.
## Frank Nazar scores only goal
Frank Nazar scored the Blackhawks' only goal in their 4-1 loss Thursday.
## Hawks drop to 1-4-0
The Hawks dropped to 1-4-0 this season including 0-4-0 on the road after Thursday's loss.
## Hawks' best performance
The Hawks generated 43-30 and 22-15 advantages in shot attempts and scoring chances during five-on-five play.
## Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin
Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin made the difference in a 4-1 game.
## Coach Jeff Blashill's comments
Coach Jeff Blashill said the Hawks' immaturity led to goals they didn't have to give up.
## Frank Nazar's illegal hit
Frank Nazar delivered an illegal hit to Islanders veteran Bo Horvat's head that could lead to NHL discipline.
## Hawks' center shortage
The Hawks have few established centers and called up Dominic Toninato to replace injured wingers.
## Dominic Toninato's role
Dominic Toninato played center in pro hockey and allowed Blashill to move Oliver Moore back to wing.
## Hawks' attendance
The Hawks drew 20,270 fans for Patrick Kane's homecoming game at United Center.
## Hawks' future attendance
The Hawks' October home games may see lower attendance than last season's average of 18,949 fans.
## Hawks' upcoming games
The Hawks face the Penguins and Jets next week in weeknight matchups likely to be less crowded.
## Key takeaway

Blackhawks' improved play yields no reward in loss to Islanders.