The Chicago Blackhawks have one final game at the United Center before flipping the calendar to 2026, with the New York Islanders coming to town.

A return from Christmas break showed a tail of two Chicago Blackhawks teams over the weekend. On Saturday, a win over one of the league’s best in the Dallas Stars was a spectacular way to snap an extended losing streak. However, the taste of victory was short-lived as the Blackhawks laid an egg at the United Center on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Chicago Blackhawks vs New York Islanders Preview

The Blackhawks fortunately do not have to travel for their next game, with another Metropolitan Division opponent coming to the United Center. The New York Islanders present an interesting task, as they’re a hard-nosed team. Led by Bo Horvat, Mathew Barzel, and rookie sensation Matthew Schaefer, the Islanders are currently second in the Metro.

In addition, New York’s Ilya Sorokin/David Rittich goalite tandem is on fire. Sorokin carries a 2.55 GAA, and Rittich owns a 2.30 GAA. The Islanders are built on defense and good goaltending to win games.

The Hawks have shown some fight, despite Sunday’s snoozer. They really stepped up against the Stars, with Tyler Bertuzzi posting two goals and Nick Lardis scoring the game-winner in the shootout. That level of effort against one of the best teams in the league is key for the Hawks moving forward. Without good process, wins won’t come no matter how good it gets.

Connor Bedard was on the ice before practice on Monday. Although his timeline is largely undefined, it is an encouraging sign. Since leaving the Hawks’ 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues on Dec. 12, the Hawks have just one win. Bedard’s return will be key to getting back on track.

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How to Watch Chicago Blackhawks vs New York Islanders

Date: Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025

Time: 7:30 p.m. CT

TV Channel: CHSN*, MSGSN, and NHL Network

Live Stream: CHSN App (in market only), FuboTV (Free Trial Available)

Several streaming and TV options are available for fans looking to watch the Blackhawks vs the New York Islanders game live. The game will air on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN)* and MSGSN in their respective markets, and NHL Network nationally. ESPN+ will not stream this as it will be broadcast on the NHL Network.

*CHSN is currently available via a direct-to-consumer streaming service and cable services Xfinity (Comcast Ultimate Tier, channel 200 and 201), DIRECTV (channel 665), DIRECTV Stream (channel 665), U-Verse (channel 1741), Astound (channels 685 and 576), and FuboTV.