The expectations for the Chicago Blackhawks this year were low. Now in year two of the Connor Bedard era, there was a thought they could take a slight step forward and become a more competitive team.

The Chicago Blackhawks rallied from a 1-0 deficit in the first period with two goals in the second, but they lost 3-2 in a shootout. Connor Bedard scored for the second straight game.

The Chicago Blackhawks were still smarting a bit Saturday from a couple of letdowns the night before. Not only did they lose to the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3 in overtime — after leading 3-1 — but they also felt the absence of forward Taylor Hall,

Chicago rookie Landon Slaggert gave Chicago their first lead of the night on a one-time shot from the top of the left faceoff circle. A Chicago shot missed the net wide but bounced around the front of the net to a waiting Ryan Donato, who extended the Blackhawks’ lead from the left side of the goal.

Although the Hawks lost again Sunday — 4-2 to the Wild — their increasingly large number of rookies are learning lessons that should benefit them in the future.

The Chicago Blackhawks had a chance to win two games in a row for just the third time this season, but the Carolina Hurricanes had other ideas. Despite falling behind 2-0 in the first period, the visitors came from behind to win 4-3 in overtime.

Nazar is only a rookie, but Bedard is in his second season. Both should be on this Blackhawks team for a long time and to gain chemistry in a season like this where the stakes are much lower and they're both young is ideal. This means they'll be good to go together with a fresh start in 2025-26 and beyond.

Photos from the Chicago Blackhawks’ 5-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights on Jan. 18, 2025, at the United Center.

Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen have been solid signings for Hawks general manager Kyle Davidson, but the rest of his moves have added very little this season.