No matter how ready you were for the 2024-25 NHL season to end in June, invariably, the itch for hockey to return resurfaces. Well, September is here to scratch that itch, even if it’s only in preseason form.
The preseason is an appetizer, a teaser. Split-squad games, superstars sitting out, and fear of injury temper the compete level (unless you’re that scrappy player looking to earn a roster spot—never change), but that’s okay because we all need to be slowly roused from the sleepy summertime slumber.
Related: Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Previews: Sam Rinzel
The Chicago Blackhawks’ alarm will go off on Sept. 23 for a game against the Detroit Red Wings, which will be the first of six preseason games against the Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, and Minnesota Wild.
There will be storylines to watch despite the reduction of preseason games. Which prospects will shine? How will the team stack up against Central Division rivals? And what takeaways, if any, can we glean from the outings?
Detroit Red Wings – Sept. 23 & 30
The Original Six franchises will face off twice on Tuesday, Sept. 23 and Tuesday, Sept. 30. Both organizations will be looking to take a stride forward this season, but the Red Wings face more pressure than the Blackhawks—having failed to reach the playoffs under general manager Steve Yzerman. Nevertheless, we will keep an eye on which players suit up for both sides in that first game.
The Blackhawks are so young it isn’t quite right to say the “young players” will be vying for opening night roster spots. Instead, we will see the depth of the organization’s prospect pool. While we won’t see third overall selection Anton Frondell (he’ll be returning to Sweden after signing a three-year entry-level contract in July), players like Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis will have the chance to make an impression.
The preseason is important for these cusp players, and we’ve seen in the past that a player who can generate momentum early in the preseason can translate that into consistent regular season playing time. The Blackhawks only play the Red Wings twice in the regular season, but don’t think the players seeking NHL jobs will take the preseason showings lightly. An Original Six matchup gets the adrenaline pumping regardless of the time of year.
St. Louis Blues – Sept. 27 & Oct. 4
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