Venting Frustrations and Joys: Blackhawks Fan Discussion

Welcome to part two of our Chicago Blackhawks venting series, where we reach out to fans via X and Bluesky to get their honest thoughts on all the hot topics surrounding the team, for better or worse. The recurring topic has been line changes, so we thought it best to keep this edition centered on that theme. Here are three questions and the fan responses.

1. Out of All the Blackhawks’ Juggled Lines, Which Line Combination Should Be Kept?

The Blackhawks have used 37 different line combinations in seven games, so it hasn’t given the team much time to see which line has had the most success, although some have stood out more than others.

From @Maccus_de_Long

From @KaKaysKreations

“[Craig] Smith, [Lukas] Reichel, [Patrick] Maroon has been the best of the scrambled lines.”

From @DynastyHawks01

“[Nick] Foligno, Bedard, and Teuvo. They have done the best together, so why break it up?”

The Bertuzzi, Bedard, and Teravainen line was a common response to this question, as they were both signed by general manager Kyle Davidson to play those top-six roles but have yet to be put together on one line. Foligno, Bedard, and Teravainen succeeded together, but Foligno is needed all over the lineup to win faceoffs and bring an edge to each line, making it tough to keep them together. However, it did work, and it is one to keep in mind for that reason. Same with the Smith, Reichel, and Maroon line. That fourth line has been a consistent offensive weapon amid their scoring struggles.

2. What Do You Think Is the Key to Connor Bedard’s Breakout?

Connor Bedard has been quiet in this recent stretch of games in all facets. He has gone eight games without a goal and has been part of 15 different line combinations in 17 games, which has drawn a lot of concern from fans.

From @hockeyyprincess

“Consistency of linemates. It’s hard to get a read off your linemates when they’re different every game.”

From @dalekew

“Connor needs to take shorter shifts. Long shifts are taking away his skill at the high end. Needs to stop turning over the puck at the blue line. Which will gain confidence with the puck in the offensive zone.”

From @kfore44

“Have fun in the game…”

These three responses stood out to me. I do think consistent linemates are helpful. Nick Foligno and Teuvo Teravainen have been his most consistent pairing, having played together in 8 games, but overall, it would be beneficial to see a consistent first-line grouping. Confidence and having fun are intriguing responses, too, since so much of the game relies on both things. Bedard loves the game, but surely it is tough when the puck luck isn’t there.

3. Thoughts on the CHSN App- To Get or Not to Get?

The Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) finally launched its app that will allow Blackhawks fans to watch games. However, they are still waiting on agreements with other streamers/distributors like Xfinity. The kick is that you have to pay $19.99 a month to watch (or more if you want to subscribe to watch the Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox), which has still caused frustration amongst the fanbase.

From @colonel.bsky.social

“I’m a season ticket holder, so my perspective is skewed since Danny [Wirtz] gave it to some of us free. It’s not something I will pay for in the future. I want it on the same tier as before in XFinity.”

From @Quinn726577741

“Not a chance with CHSN. Too pricey for a business already not in fans good graces. ESPN+ is what, $11.99 and offers way more value. I’ll find other ways to watch the Hawks.”

From @DynastyHawks01

“Absolutely horrible. “We want to make it more accessible for all Illinoisans,” yet there’s a monthly subscription?”

Overall, the CHSN mess has been dragging on for too long. They are over a month into the season, and it is unknown when it will be available elsewhere. This still makes finding solutions to watch games a pain, even with the app launch. Fans have a right to be frustrated by how this is still being handled and at the price point they are working with.

Bonus Responses

I received some other responses to these questions, which was a general feel on the team.

From @jgasper25_

“Honestly, the team as a whole just lacks any sort of identity. Watching them, I don’t see that team juice or togetherness that we are used to. Obviously, it will take time, but still.”

From @bhawk_mom

“Another vote for “identity”…I don’t know if this is KD [Kyle Davidson], Richardson, even Foligno…there’s just nothing. I don’t feel any relationships or passion. Sure, there’s the “accountability” healthy scratch, but has that helped? It’s hard to watch a team you love be so meh…”

From @narrowshoo.bsky.social

“Last night [Nov. 14 against Seattle Kraken] felt like Richardson is at the point of just throwing it all at the wall to see if anything at all sticks. No line is going to come together if they’re constantly being shifted around. The bottom line is it’s still a talent issue around him and the rebuild goes on.”

I think there is something to these responses. Richardson wanted to build a hard-working team identity, and they have been inconsistent. It’s hard to tell what they are yet besides just a rebuilding team, which is expected with many players being placeholders, but it is frustrating to watch.

For more Blackhawks News from Jim Lynch and Brooke LoFurno, visit Chicago Hockey Now, subscribe to our YouTube and like our Facebook page.

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For more Blackhawks News from Jim Lynch and Brooke LoFurno, visit Chicago Hockey Now, subscribe to our YouTube and like our Facebook page.

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