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Blackhawks Set to Sell as Trade Deadline Approaches

1/30/2026

48 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Trade activity rises ahead of the Olympic roster freeze, and the Chicago Blackhawks are expected to be sellers at the deadline.
Several Chicago players on expiring contracts are likely to be moved.
The Blackhawks earned points in nine of 14 January games.
They have lost four straight, including a 6-2 defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where Connor Bedard scored for Chicago and the Penguins' Egor Chinakhov and Anthony Mantha contributed.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, marking a pivotal shift in professional hockey. This expansion included franchises like the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers, aimed at increasing competition and fan engagement. Today, the Chicago Blackhawks navigate roster changes, reflecting the ongoing evolution of team dynamics that began with this landmark expansion, which significantly shaped the league's future.

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Story summary

Trade activity rises ahead of the Olympic roster freeze, and the Chicago Blackhawks are expected to be sellers at the deadline.
Several Chicago players on expiring contracts are likely to be moved.
The Blackhawks earned points in nine of 14 January games.
They have lost four straight, including a 6-2 defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where Connor Bedard scored for Chicago and the Penguins' Egor Chinakhov and Anthony Mantha contributed.

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