Game Preview: Pittsburgh Penguins @ Chicago Blackhawks 10/13/2026

October 13, 2026

The Chicago Blackhawks welcome the Pittsburgh Penguins to the United Center on Tuesday for a critical early-season matchup, with the Hawks looking to snap a two-game losing streak and improve their 1-5 start. The Blackhawks' top line could see its first full deployment of the season, as star forward Connor Bedard returns from offseason shoulder surgery and is expected to join Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov for the first time.

Chicago’s power play, one of the league’s worst through six games, will also get a test with Bedard’s return, as the team attempts to capitalize on the man advantage after going just 1-for-14. Meanwhile, the Penguins, riding a strong 3-2-1 record, aim to extend their recent momentum on the opening leg of a four-game road trip that includes stops in Denver and Las Vegas.

The series holds added weight after Pittsburgh swept the Blackhawks in their last two meetings, including a 7-3 win in December when Bedard was still sidelined.