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Rising Contenders: The Blackhawks and their future Stanley Cup rivals

Related Topics: San Jose Sharks, Kyle Davidson

As the Blackhawks are not expected to compete for the playoffs this year, there are multiple teams in the rebuilding process that have a similar timeline.

2025 NHL Draft | Bruce Bennett/GettyImages

The Chicago Blackhawks have not made the NHL playoffs (outside of the COVID/bubble year) since the 2016-2017 season. They have since followed with multiple last-place finishes and lottery picks. These high draft picks have brought with them heightened expectations and optimism that General Manager Kyle Davidson will soon transform the Blackhawks into a consistent Stanley Cup contender.