As the 2025–26 season approaches, the Chicago Blackhawks are set to celebrate a massive milestone — 100 years in the National Hockey League. From their founding in 1926 by Frederic McLaughlin to the dynasty years of Hull and Mikita, the 2010s golden run with Toews, Kane, and Keith, and now the Bedard era… this franchise has seen it all.
Throughout the upcoming season, we’ll be celebrating the greatest players, moments, rivalries, and championships that have shaped the Blackhawks’ legacy over the last century. It’s not just a new season — it’s the start of a year-long tribute to one of the NHL’s Original Six icons.
Connor Bedard: Canada’s Lone Hawk at Olympic Camp
In national news, Connor Bedard was officially invited to Team Canada’s Olympic Orientation Camp, scheduled for August 26–28 in Calgary. The camp will include 42 players — 26 forwards, 13 defensemen, and 3 goalies — all vying for a spot on Canada’s 2026 Winter Olympic roster.
Bedard is the only representative from the Blackhawks at this time, but no surprise there — the 19-year-old is already viewed as a key piece of Canada’s next golden generation. The camp will be overseen by GM Doug Armstrong, and Bedard will get the chance to compete alongside and against the NHL’s best.
WJSS Day 5 Recap: Boisvert Shines for Canada
The 2025 World Junior Summer Showcase continued on Friday, with Finland defeating the USA 6–3 and Sweden overpowering Canada 8–4.
The Blackhawks had three prospects in action today:
• Sacha Boisvert had another excellent showing, earning two assists and continuing to display great chemistry with Michael Hage. The duo has built strong offensive synergy this week and looks like they could be locks for the final Canadian roster if they maintain this level of play.
• Marek Vanacker, playing on Canada’s second line, had his toughest game of the tournament. Lacking chemistry with linemates Kindel and O’Brien, the trio struggled to generate sustained pressure and couldn’t find answers against Sweden’s speed and structure.
• AJ Spellacy skated on the fourth line for Team USA, but like much of the American squad, he had a quiet outing against a sharp Finnish team. Spellacy had some flashes earlier in the week, but they weren’t as noticeable in this one.
Tomorrow marks the final day of the showcase with two marquee matchups: Canada vs USA and Sweden vs Finland.
Looking Ahead: A Year of Reflection and Hope
This isn’t just another season for the Blackhawks — it’s a year to honor 100 years of pride, pain, and passion in the Windy City. From the first puck drop in 1926 at the Chicago Coliseum to the dynasty nights at the United Center, the Blackhawks have built one of the richest histories in the NHL.
And we’re not just watching the games — we’re diving into the legacy. All season long, we’ll highlight the best of the Blackhawks:
???? Legendary players like Mikita, Hull, Savard, Roenick, Kane, and Toews.
???? Iconic seasons, including the dynasties of 1934, 1961, and the modern Cups of 2010, 2013, and 2015.
???? Great coaches and GMs who built something special.
???? Historic stats, unforgettable moments, and individual seasons that still take your breath away.
???? And yes, some behind-the-scenes stories, fun throwbacks, and deep dives into the milestones that shaped this franchise.
At the same time, the future feels as promising as ever — with Bedard, Nazar, Levshunov, Rinzel, Moore, and so many talented young guns pushing the next chapter forward.
It’s a season to celebrate the past and believe in what’s next.
So buckle up, Hawks fans — this centennial ride is just getting started.
Hlinka Gretzky Cup Preview: 2026 Draft Watch Begins
Team Canada also announced its official roster for the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, set to run from August 11 to 16 in Czechia and Slovakia. This prestigious under-18 tournament has become a must-watch event for NHL scouts — and this year is no different.
Canada is sending a strong defensive group and some powerful forwards, but it’s worth noting that the team overall is on the smaller side. Still, there’s plenty of talent on display, and for Blackhawks management and fans, this is an early chance to scout the 2026 NHL Draft class.
Chicago is likely headed for another top-5 pick in 2026, and don’t forget — they also hold the Florida Panthers’ first-round pick from the Seth Jones deal. That gives GM Kyle Davidson two shots at adding more elite talent to the pipeline.
We’ll be covering the Hlinka tournament just like the WJSS, with daily recaps and full prospect coverage right here on @HockeyHstove.
We’ll be back tomorrow with more updates from the WJSS, along with everything Blackhawks.
Until then, remember — you have greatness inside of you.
