The Chicago Blackhawks are heading into the NHL's Olympic break, a period of quiet on the ice but potentially a busy time for the front office. Here’s a look at the team's recent performance and the key storylines to follow.

Schedule Before the Break

The Blackhawks had a light schedule leading up to the Olympic break, playing only two games between February 1st and 8th. The team aimed to use these games to set a tone before the hiatus, as they evaluate their approach for the remainder of the season.

To Buy or Sell?

With the trade deadline approaching on March 6th, the Blackhawks face a crucial decision: whether to be buyers or sellers. The team is currently on the fringe of the playoff race, trailing teams like the San Jose Sharks for a wild card spot. This situation presents a dilemma for management:

• Selling: The Blackhawks could trade pending unrestricted free agents like Connor Murphy and Nick Foligno to acquire draft picks, further stocking the team's prospect pool.
• Buying: Alternatively, they could become buyers, seeking players with long-term contracts to complement Connor Bedard and accelerate the team's rebuild. Recent rumors suggest the Blackhawks are more inclined to find long-term linemates for Bedard rather than simply acquiring temporary rentals.

Connor Bedard's Impact

Connor Bedard continues to be a central figure for the Blackhawks. Through 42 games, he has tallied 52 points and is maintaining a near point-per-game pace in his sophomore season. As Bedard approaches the end of his entry-level contract, the Blackhawks' front office faces pressure to demonstrate a commitment to building a competitive future around him.

Bedard's Olympic Snub

A significant point of discussion is Connor Bedard's exclusion from Team Canada's Olympic roster. Despite his strong performance, he was not initially selected, and when an injury created an opening, Seth Jarvis of the Carolina Hurricanes was chosen instead. This decision has sparked considerable debate among fans who anticipated Bedard's potential to shine on the international stage.

Teravainen Represents

Teuvo Teravainen is the sole Chicago Blackhawk player participating in the 2026 Winter Olympics, representing Team Finland. He will be joined by former teammate Sebastian Aho, offering Blackhawks fans a connection to the Olympic tournament.

Olympic Schedule

Blackhawks fans can catch Teuvo Teravainen and Team Finland in the preliminary round:

• February 11: Slovakia vs. Finland, 10:40 a.m. (EST)
• February 13: Finland vs. Sweden, 6:10 a.m. (EST)

As the Blackhawks enter this Olympic break, the focus remains on the future direction of the team, the development of key players like Bedard, and the decisions that will shape the roster in the coming weeks.