To say that playing playoff hockey has been earned by this team, after the type of season that the Chicago Blackhawks had in 2019-20, would be unjustifiable. Currently sitting in the last place in the Central Division, they wouldn’t otherwise normally be part of the post-season conversation. However, with the proposed 24-team playoff format that is currently under review, this Blackhawks team could find an unlikely way in.
If the plan continues to progress, the Blackhawks will faceoff against the Edmonton Oilers in their first series. The winner of that round will earn a spot in what will then be a more traditional 16-team bracket, where the Dallas Stars will be patiently waiting.