3 Observations Why the Blackhawks Are Off to a Great Start

Nobody in the NHL expected the Chicago Blackhawks to sit at 3-2-2 after seven games.

This team was supposed to take small steps — not steal points from playoff contenders every night.

Yet here we are: every game is competitive, every loss decided by one goal, and every night, the Hawks look more confident.

There are some very clear reasons behind this surprising start. Let’s break them down.

1️⃣ Spencer Knight – The Foundation of the Hawks’ Start

Let’s be honest — without Spencer Knight, Chicago wouldn’t have eight points right now.

He’s been the biggest difference-maker since opening night, keeping the team alive with timely saves, whether it’s late in the third period or during overtime.

Knight currently ranks 8th in the NHL with a 1.96 GAA, 4th in save percentage at .937, and 1st in GSVAx with +9.90.

That’s elite company.

According to NHL EDGE data, Knight has faced 45 high-danger shots, one of the highest totals in the league — and he’s handled them like a veteran.

This kid isn’t just playing well — he’s owning the crease.

Drafted 13th overall in 2019 by the Panthers, Knight’s story is one of resilience. After a promising rookie year, he stepped away from hockey to seek help through the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program — a courageous move that shows his maturity beyond his age.

He worked his way back through the AHL, returned to the NHL, and was eventually traded to Chicago in the deal involving Seth Jones.

Today, he looks like the long-term solution in net for the Blackhawks.

Knight has the tools to become a Top-10, maybe Top-5 goalie in the league — calm, technical, athletic, and mentally tough.

For a 24-year-old, that’s impressive.

And don’t forget — this is a goalie who won gold at the 2021 World Juniors, shutting out Canada in the final. Big moments don’t scare him — they fuel him.

• His Boston College career — 16-4-1 record, .932 SV%, finalist for Mike Richter Award and Hobey Baker.
• His rookie NHL season — 19 wins, 2 shutouts, breaking franchise rookie records.
• His WJC 2021 USA MVP).

2️⃣ The “Three Amigos” — Bedard, Nazar, and Rinzel

We already knew Connor Bedard would be special. But this season, he looks even more determined — hungrier, stronger, and far more competitive.

Through seven games, he’s got 7 points, but what really stands out is his engagement. He doesn’t wait for plays — he creates them.

Beside him, Frank Nazar has exploded out of the gate with 7 points (3 goals) and a shooting percentage of 27.3%.

Bedard and Nazar currently rank among the Top-5 duos in the NHL for points among 1C and 2C combinations — and that’s a big statement.

Opponents can’t just focus on Bedard anymore — they have to deal with the speed and skill of Nazar’s line too.

That’s a major shift in the Hawks’ offensive depth chart.

The result? Speed, creativity, and puck possession.

Under Jeff Bashill’s system, both centers have brought pace and vision that keep defenders guessing.

And in 3-on-3 overtime, the duo of Bedard-Nazar is already one of the most electrifying tandems in the league.

According to NHL EDGE, Bedard ranks 6th in the NHL and 3rd overall in total miles skated (25.44) — proof of his constant effort and relentless drive.

And let’s not forget the third Amigo — Sam Rinzel.

In his first full NHL season, the 21-year-old defenseman is showing why the Hawks are so high on him.

Playing on the top pairing with Vlasic, Rinzel has 3 points (1 goal), averaging 21:04 TOI, with 11 blocks and 10 hits.

He’s learning fast, playing against top competition, and showing growth every game.

He’s not perfect, but he’s confident, mobile, and composed — and that’s rare for a young defenseman of his size.

Together, Bedard, Nazar, and Rinzel give Chicago something it hasn’t had in years: hope, excitement, and balance for the future.

3️⃣ The Veterans Step Up

While the spotlight shines on the kids, the veterans deserve serious credit too.

Players like Teuvo Teravainen (6 points), Tyler Bertuzzi (5 points), Ryan Donato (5 points), Jason Dickinson, and Ilya Mikheyev have stabilized the lineup and added real depth.

This group brings over 2,600 games of NHL experience, leadership, and consistency.

They play the right way — responsible in all three zones, helping the young guys settle in.

Don’t overlook André Burakovsky either — his presence adds another offensive threat and veteran calm to this forward group.

The Hawks finally have balance.

They can attack with their top six and defend or grind with their bottom six.

That’s a big step forward compared to the past few seasons.

Bonus Reason — Jeff Bashill’s Impact

Head coach Jeff Bashill deserves a ton of credit.

From Day 1 of training camp, he set a new tone — attention to detail, structured practices, and accountability.

He demands effort, focus, and preparation — and it’s showing.

Chicago is the second-youngest team in the NHL, but they look organized, competitive, and confident.

Bashill isn’t afraid to make bold adjustments either. His choice to go with 7 defensemen and 11 forwards has worked early, and he’s not shy about mixing lines mid-game if needed.

He knows they’ll face adversity, but his message is clear: control what you can, compete for 60 minutes, and stay all-in.

And that’s exactly what this team is doing.

Final Thoughts

It’s only seven games, but this start feels different.

Between Knight’s brilliance, the energy of the young core, and the leadership of the veterans, Chicago finally has an identity again.

The Blackhawks are playing meaningful hockey, building confidence, and giving fans a reason to believe in the rebuild.

This is just the beginning — the foundation is being built in front of our eyes.

And trust me… more talent is coming.

Enjoy the ride, Hawks fans. The fun has just started.

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