The Chicago Blackhawks concluded their 2025-26 campaign with a 5-2 victory on home ice, giving the fans one last thing to cheer about heading into the offseason. The team got good performances up and down the lineup. Moreover, players tried to make one last impression and make their case to be a part of the Blackhawks moving forward.
Blackhawks Stock Watch: Who is Here Moving Forward?
Credit Image: © Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune via ZUMA Press Wire
However, it can not be lost that, after the Olympic break, Chicago struggled to get wins. They closed out the season with a 7-13-5 record, and general manager Kyle Davidson has a lot of work to do in figuring out next season’s roster. Davidson was awarded a contract extension before Wednesday’s game, so he has runway to get this team back to the playoffs. But for today, let’s take another look around the roster and see who stamped their case to be here long-term.
The main issue for the Blackhawks this season was their inability to surround superstar Connor Bedard with help around him. Well, this season, Bertuzzi has to be exempt from that conversation. Aside from the phenom, Bertuzzi was the best and most consistent player for the team. He notched a career-high 32 goals and earned the second-most points of his career with 52. He was one of the lone bright spots on a power play that really struggled, and he continued to be consistently in front of the net. That being said, Bertuzzi played with Frank Nazar for a lot of the season, elevating the play of that line, along with the man advantage. Bertuzzi has two more seasons under contract, and he did nothing but prove his worth this season.
Mikeheyv’s second season in Chicago was rather underrated. He collected a career-high 36 points and emerged as one of the best penalty killers in the entire league. His speed continued to be on display, and he really emerged as an important x-factor for the team down the stretch, both offensively and defensively. Mikheyev established nice chemistry with Jason Dickinson and Ryan Donato, so Dickinson’s departure left some questions as to how Mikheyev would finish the season, but he blossomed. The Hawks’ penalty kill finished second in the NHL, thanks in large part to Mikheyev’s speed and defensive instincts. Mikheyev is slated to enter the open market on July 1st. However, if he does not return, it will not be because of poor performance.
3. Ryan Greene
Greene’s first full season in the league was a big success. He notched 12 goals and played in all but one game this season. Additionally, his shooting percentage was right at 11 percent, meaning that he finished at an average level, so a higher shot volume in the coming seasons could spell good fortune for Greene. However, the most impressive part of Greene’s campaign was both his confidence level and the confidence that head coach Jeff Blashill showed in him as the season progressed. Greene was one of Bedard’s most consistent linemates as the year went on, and he benefited. He closed out the season with goals in three straight games and was one of the Hawks’ most trusted forwards. Greene is still on his entry-level deal, but he will be in line for a nice extension if he continues to play the way he did.
goals in three straight for Greener🫡 pic.twitter.com/uVRPfsHrPG
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 16, 2026
The defence pairing of Crevier and Alex Vlasic was the best on the team for long stretches of the season. Crevier, in particular, showed a polished, refined defensive game that will be a key part of Chicago’s blueline in the future. He also showed sneaky offensive skill, netting seven goals and 25 points. He blocked shots and threw the body at a steady rate, all while playing against other teams’ best lines. In addition, his 6’8″ frame makes him a nightmare matchup, and his skating allows him to keep pace easily. The big man has one more season on his deal, but should see a contract renewal sooner rather than later.
5. Wyatt Kaiser
Kaiser did an excellent job being paired with Sam Rinzel and Artyom Levshunov. He provided a steady presence for the youngsters to play their games and make mistakes. Kaiser is also an excellent skater and showcased his speed and hip mobility to evade defenders. What made Kaiser’s job so thankless is how much Rinzel and Levshunov struggled at times. Both of them showed signs of being two young defenders, and Kaiser, just 23 himself, played with a veteran poise. Kaiser was also tasked with heavy minutes, so as the Hawks bring in more blueliners, Kaiser should settle into a middle-pairing role well.
Honourable Mention
Anton Frondell – While in just a 12-game sample size, Frondell already looks the part of an elite professional player. He is strong with an excellent shot and hockey sense. A full season next year should have Frondell skyrocket to the top of this list.
Despite their 31st-place finish, Davidson has many pieces to be happy about moving forward. While some moves are coming, these guys really made their case to be a member of the Hawks moving forward. Check back in soon as we take one last look at this season and evaluate who struggled to find their footing.
Main Photo: David Banks-Imagn Images