Players to Watch: CHI vs COL (10/13/21)

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel via Getty Images)

The preseason is over. The games actually matter now. 

The Chicago Blackhawks kick off their 2021-22 regular season schedule tonight against the Colorado Avalanche. It’s going to be a great early test for this Blackhawks team. 

Not only do they have to play in altitude right off the jump, they’re going up against a very fast and skilled Avalanche team. The defense and special teams could really get put to the test tonight if the team isn’t careful. 

Here are your players to watch tonight!

Seth Jones

Seth Jones did not have a great preseason. Many people said that he wouldn’t be giving it his full effort since he wasn’t trying to win a roster spot. It’s a fair point, but he’s going to have to step it up now that the games actually matter. Having a strong performance against one of the Stanley Cup favorites would inspire much more confidence in his game. 

Patrick Kane

Patrick Kane was rather . . . underwhelming in the preseason. But the Blackhawks didn’t need Kane to be amazing then. They very clearly know what they have in Patrick Kane when he’s on his game. After finding out he’s had a nagging injury, his ability to flip the switch to Regular Season Kane has me concerned. It would be great to see him get a fast start to the season tonight and maybe pot a goal . . . or two. 

Jonathan Toews

Jonathan Toews had a great preseason for a player who missed a full year of hockey. But, now the games actually matter. The opponent is going to come at the Blackhawks harder, and Colorado is a tough team to beat. It will be a great test for Jonny.