Full History Of Chicago Blackhawks In Timeline From 1926

May 15, 1926: Chicago awarded NHL expansion franchise

On May 15, 1926, the NHL owners awarded an expansion franchise for Chicago to a syndicate headed by Huntington Hardwick.

November 17, 1926: First Game

On November 17, 1926, the Black Hawks played their first game against the Toronto St. Patricks at the Chicago Coliseum, winning 4-1.

1926: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

1926: Original Logo Design

In 1926, Irene Castle, McLaughlin's wife, designed the original version of the team's logo, which featured a crudely drawn black and white Native head in a circle.

1926: Inaugural season

In 1926, the Black Hawks began play in the NHL along with expansion franchises Detroit Cougars and New York Rangers.

1927: Firing of Pete Muldoon

In 1927, head coach Pete Muldoon was fired, leading to the legend of the "Curse of Muldoon."

1927: Playoff Loss

In 1927, the Hawks finished the season in third place with a record of 19-22-3 but lost the first-round playoff series to the Boston Bruins.

1928: Location change

In 1928, the Black Hawks were slated to play at the newly built Chicago Stadium. Due to construction delays and disputes, the team divided their time between the Coliseum, the Detroit Olympia, and the Peace Bridge Arena.

1930: Stellar Season

In 1930, the Hawks played the hockey season with stars such as Johnny Gottselig, Cy Wentworth, and Charlie Gardiner.

1931: Stanley Cup Final

In 1931, the Hawks reached their first Stanley Cup Final but lost to the Montreal Canadiens.

1932: Wirtz-Norris Partnership

In 1932, Arthur Wirtz was a minority partner in the syndicate that James E. Norris put together to buy the Detroit Red Wings, dating the Wirtz-Norris partnership over three decades.

1934: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

1934: Stanley Cup win

In 1934, under the ownership of Frederic McLaughlin, the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.

1936: Chicago Stadium purchased

In 1936, James E. Norris purchased the Chicago Stadium and became the Black Hawks' landlord.

1936: Design from 1936-37 Season

In 2009, the Blackhawks wore jerseys based on the design worn in the 1936–37 season.

1937: Near playoff miss

In 1937, the Black Hawks had a record of 14–25–9, almost missing the playoffs.

1938: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

1938: Stanley Cup win

In 1938, the Black Hawks won the Stanley Cup, despite having a poor regular season record and needing to pull a minor-leaguer out of a bar to play goalie.

1938: Second "Reverse Retro" Uniform Released

In the 2022–23 season, a second "Reverse Retro" uniform was released, based on their 1938 uniform.

1943: Curse of Muldoon

In 1943, the story of the Curse of Muldoon was first printed by sportswriter Jim Coleman.

December 1944: McLaughlin death

In December 1944, after McLaughlin died, his estate sold the team to a syndicate headed by Bill Tobin.

1944: McLaughlin death

In 1944, after the death of Frederic McLaughlin, the Chicago Blackhawks came under the ownership of the Norris family.

1944: Stanley Cup Final appearance

In 1944, the Black Hawks returned to the Stanley Cup Final, but were defeated by the Montreal Canadiens in four games.

1945: Norris-Tobin ownership

In 1945, under the Norris-Tobin ownership, the Black Hawks experienced a period of futility.

1950: Norris and Wirtz take over

In 1950, James D. Norris and Arthur Wirtz took over the Black Hawks, guiding the club through financial reversals and rebuilding the team.

1952: Norris assets spread

In 1952, after the death of James E. Norris Sr., Norris' assets were divided among family members, and James D. Norris became the owner of the Chicago Blackhawks.

1955: Logo Change

At the beginning of the 1955-56 season, the outer circle of the Blackhawks' logo was removed, and the head began to resemble the team's current primary logo.

1955: Debut of Jersey Design

In 1955, the Blackhawks debuted a jersey design that featured predominantly red jerseys with black and white stripes and white jerseys with alternating black, white, and red stripes. Minor modifications have been made since.

1957: 2017 Winter Classic Uniform

For the 2017 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms very similar to those worn at the 2015 Winter Classic. Modifications included a logo that the franchise used from 1957-1965 with the roundel and lettering removed, as well as changes to the colors placed on the tomahawk.

1958: Playoff Appearance

Between 1945 and 1958, the Black Hawks made the playoffs twice.

1958: Missed the Playoffs

In the 1968–69 season, despite Bobby Hull breaking his own record, the Black Hawks missed the playoffs for the first time since 1958.

1959: First-round exit

In 1959, the Chicago Blackhawks experienced a first-round exit at the hands of the eventual champions from Montreal.

1960: First-round exit

In 1960, the Chicago Blackhawks experienced a first-round exit at the hands of the eventual champions from Montreal.

1961: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

1961: Stanley Cup Win

In 1961, the Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Detroit Red Wings to win their third Stanley Cup championship.

1962: Stanley Cup Final loss

In 1962, the Chicago Black Hawks lost in the Stanley Cup Final to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

1963: Bill Tobin Death

In 1963, Bill Tobin died, he was the vice president of the Chicago Blackhawks until his death.

1964: Logo remained constant

This crest and uniform went through subtle changes until the 1964–65 season; the basic logo and jersey design have remained constant ever since.

1965: 2017 Winter Classic Uniform

For the 2017 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms very similar to those worn at the 2015 Winter Classic. Modifications included a logo that the franchise used from 1957-1965 with the roundel and lettering removed, as well as changes to the colors placed on the tomahawk.

1965: Stanley Cup Final loss

In 1965, the Chicago Black Hawks lost in the Stanley Cup Final to the Montreal Canadiens.

1966: Expansion franchise

Before his death in 1966, James D. Norris arranged an expansion franchise in St. Louis, where he owned the St. Louis Arena.

1966: James D. Norris death

In 1966, James D. Norris passed away, leading to the Wirtz family becoming owners of the Chicago Blackhawks franchise.

1966: Finished First

In the 1966-67 season, the last season of the six-team NHL, the Black Hawks finished first.

1967: Glenn Hall drafted

In 1967, goaltender Glenn Hall was drafted by the St. Louis Blues expansion team.

1967: Trade with Boston Bruins

In 1967, the Black Hawks made a trade with the Boston Bruins, sending Phil Esposito, Ken Hodge, and Fred Stanfield to Boston in exchange for Pit Martin, Jack Norris, and Gilles Marotte. Esposito, Hodge, and Stanfield would lead the Bruins to the top of the NHL for several years.

1968: Pilote traded

In 1968, Pierre Pilote was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for Jim Pappin.

1970: Division Change

In the 1970–71 season, the Black Hawks were moved to the West Division.

1972: Bobby Hull Jumps to the Winnipeg Jets

In 1972, a critical blow to the Chicago Blackhawks franchise came when Bobby Hull, dissatisfied with his NHL salary, left to join the Winnipeg Jets of the World Hockey Association (WHA) for a million-dollar contract.

1974: Worst Season Since 1974

In the 2023-24 NHL season, The Blackhawks' record was the worst in franchise history since 1974.

1976: Blackhawks Acquire Bobby Orr

In 1976, the Chicago Blackhawks acquired legendary defenseman Bobby Orr from the Boston Bruins, but due to ill health, Orr missed most of the season.

1979: Bobby Orr Retires

In 1979, Bobby Orr retired from the Chicago Blackhawks after playing only 26 games due to health issues.

1982: Blackhawks Make Playoff Run

In 1982, led by Denis Savard and Doug Wilson, the Chicago Blackhawks made a surprising playoff run, defeating the Minnesota North Stars and St. Louis Blues before losing to the Vancouver Canucks.

1983: Arthur Wirtz Dies, Bill Wirtz Takes Control

In 1983, Arthur Wirtz died, and his son Bill Wirtz took sole control of the Chicago Blackhawks club.

1984: Blackhawks off-year

In 1984, the Chicago Blackhawks had an off-year following a strong performance in the prior season.

1985: Tradition of Cheering During "The Star-Spangled Banner" Begins

During the 1985 playoff series against Edmonton, the Chicago Blackhawks and their fans started a tradition of cheering during the singing of "The Star-Spangled Banner".

1985: Blackhawks Lose in Third Round

In 1985, the Chicago Blackhawks again faced the Edmonton Oilers in the third round of the playoffs, losing to the offensive juggernaut.

1985: Discovery of Name Discrepancy

Prior to the 1985–86 season, it was discovered that the Chicago Blackhawks' original NHL contract had their name printed as a compound word ("Blackhawks") instead of two separate words ("Black Hawks").

1986: Lloyd Pettit awarded Foster Hewitt Memorial Award

In 1986, Lloyd Pettit, a sportscaster, was the first Blackhawks broadcaster to receive the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame.

1986: Official Transition to "Chicago Blackhawks"

In 1986, the Chicago Blackhawks began transitioning to the name "Chicago Blackhawks" before the league officially followed suit ahead of the 1986–87 campaign.

1986: Team name change

In 1986, the Chicago NHL team's name officially changed from "Black Hawks" (two words) to "Blackhawks" (one word), based on the spelling found in the original franchise documents.

1988: Early Playoff Exit

In the late 1980s, the Chicago Blackhawks made the playoffs on an annual basis but had early-round exits each time. Specifically in 1988, they had an early exit.

1989: Conference Finals Appearance

In 1989, after three-straight first-round defeats, the Chicago Blackhawks reached the conference finals during the rookie seasons of Ed Belfour and Jeremy Roenick but lost to the Calgary Flames.

1990: Blackhawks Poised for Playoffs

In the 1990–91 season, the Chicago Blackhawks were poised to do well in the playoffs.

1991: Blackhawks Win Presidents' Trophy, Upset in Playoffs

In 1991, the Chicago Blackhawks won the Presidents' Trophy for the best regular season record but were upset by the Minnesota North Stars in the first round of the playoffs.

1992: Blackhawks Lose Stanley Cup Final

In 1992, after reaching the Stanley Cup Final after 19 years, the Chicago Blackhawks were swept by the Pittsburgh Penguins, despite close games.

1992: Blackhawks Swept by St. Louis

In 1992-93, despite a strong season from Ed Belfour and Chris Chelios, the Chicago Blackhawks were swept by the St. Louis Blues in the first round of the playoffs.

1993: Blackhawks Qualify for Playoffs

In the 1993–94 season, the Chicago Blackhawks again qualified for the playoffs.

1994: Mike Keenan Coaches Rangers to Stanley Cup

In 1994, former Blackhawks head coach Mike Keenan led the New York Rangers to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years.

1994: Blackhawks Eliminated by Toronto, Move to United Center, and Fire Wayne Messmer

In 1994, the Chicago Blackhawks were eliminated by Toronto in the playoffs, broke their 10-game playoff losing streak with a win, moved from the Chicago Stadium to the United Center, and fired Wayne Messmer.

1996: Alternate Third Jersey

Between 1996 and 2007, the team donned an alternate third jersey that was primarily black with red and white stripes.

1996: Alternates Worn From 1996

For the 2014 Stadium Series, the Blackhawks wore a black uniform similar to the alternates they wore from 1996 to 2009.

1996: Centennial Season Uniform Modifications

For the team's 2025-26 centennial season, the Blackhawks modified their current red home uniforms, adding lace-up collars and gold trim around the crest and back numbers. The 100th anniversary patch replaced the "crossing tomahawks" patch on the right shoulder. Also during the season, the alternate black uniform they previously wore from 1996 to 2007 and in the 2008–09 season was brought back.

1997: Blackhawks out of the Playoffs

From the 1997-98 season, the Blackhawks would be out of the playoffs until 2008-09.

1997: Denis Savard became assistant coach

In 1997, Denis Savard became the assistant coach for the team after retiring as one of its most popular players.

1997: Playoff miss

In 1997, the Black Hawks missed the playoffs for the last time before 1997–98.

1998: Blackhawks Miss Playoffs Again

In the 1998-99 season, the Chicago Blackhawks missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

1999: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below. The Native American head logo inside the roundel features the 1999–2000 native American head logo that they currently wear.

1999: Blackhawks Miss Playoffs

In 1999-2000, the Chicago Blackhawks continued to miss the playoffs.

2000: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below. The Native American head logo inside the roundel features the 1999–2000 native American head logo that they currently wear.

2000: Blackhawks Miss Playoffs

In the 2000-01 season, the Chicago Blackhawks missed the playoffs.

2001: Introduction of Tommy Hawk

The Blackhawks mascot, Tommy Hawk, was introduced in the 2001-02 season.

2002: Blackhawks First Round Exit

In 2002, the Chicago Blackhawks made a quick first-round exit in the playoffs, losing to the St. Louis Blues in five games.

February 2004: Blackhawks Named Worst Franchise by ESPN

In February 2004, ESPN named the Chicago Blackhawks the worst franchise in professional sports, reflecting the team's struggles and unpopular policies under owner Bill Wirtz.

November 2004: Uniform Ranked Among Best

In November 2004, the Blackhawks' uniform was voted 1 of the 25 best in professional sports by Paul Lukas of GQ.

2004: Restructuring after Lockout

Following the 2004-05 lockout, new general manager Dale Tallon began restructuring the Blackhawks.

2005: Tallon Signs Khabibulin and Aucoin

In the summer of 2005, Dale Tallon signed Nikolai Khabibulin and Adrian Aucoin to the Blackhawks.

May 16, 2006: Pat Foley Fired

On May 16, 2006, the Chicago Blackhawks announced that Pat Foley, a popular play-by-play announcer, would not be brought back after 25 years with the team.

November 26, 2006: Trent Yawney Fired, Denis Savard Appointed Head Coach

On November 26, 2006, the Chicago Blackhawks fired head coach Trent Yawney and appointed assistant coach Denis Savard as the new head coach.

September 26, 2007: Bill Wirtz Dies, Rocky Wirtz Succeeds

On September 26, 2007, longtime Chicago Blackhawks owner Bill Wirtz died after a battle with cancer and was succeeded by his son Rocky, who made significant policy changes.

2007: Centennial Season Uniform Modifications

For the team's 2025-26 centennial season, the Blackhawks modified their current red home uniforms, adding lace-up collars and gold trim around the crest and back numbers. The 100th anniversary patch replaced the "crossing tomahawks" patch on the right shoulder. Also during the season, the alternate black uniform they previously wore from 1996 to 2007 and in the 2008–09 season was brought back.

2007: Rocky Wirtz takes control

In 2007, Rocky Wirtz gained control of the Chicago Blackhawks team, and is credited with revitalizing the organization.

2007: Minute Changes to Uniforms

In 2007, The Blackhawks along with all other NHL teams made minute changes to their uniforms, by adding larger logo, a new collar with the NHL logo and a "baseball-style cut" along the bottom.

2007: Adidas Becomes Official Outfitter

In 2017, Adidas replaced Reebok as the official outfitter of NHL uniforms and licensed apparel. The Reebok "Edge" template was retired in favor of Adidas' "ADIZERO" template, which was introduced for the 2017-18 season. The home and away uniforms that debuted in the 2007-08 season remained nearly identical, except for the new Adidas ADIZERO template and collar.

2007: Experimenting with TV Broadcasts

Midway into the 2007–08 season, the Chicago Blackhawks franchise experimented with a partnership with Comcast SportsNet Chicago and WGN-TV by airing selected home games on television.

February 13, 2008: Blackhawks Announce First Fan Convention

On February 13, 2008, the Blackhawks announced that they would hold their first ever fan convention.

February 26, 2008: Blackhawks trade Tuomo Ruutu for Andrew Ladd

On February 26, 2008, the Blackhawks traded Tuomo Ruutu to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Andrew Ladd, marking a significant roster change.

April 30, 2008: Deal signed with WGN Radio

On April 30, 2008, the Blackhawks signed a three-year deal with WGN Radio (720 AM). Games would air alternately on WIND (560 AM) in scheduling conflict situations during the baseball season.

July 16, 2008: Blackhawks to host 2009 Winter Classic at Wrigley Field

On July 16, 2008, the Blackhawks announced that they would host the 2009 Winter Classic at Wrigley Field against the Detroit Red Wings.

October 16, 2008: Denis Savard relieved of head coaching duties

On October 16, 2008, the Blackhawks relieved Denis Savard of his head coaching duties and replaced him with Joel Quenneville.

2008: All games broadcast on television

During the 2008-09 season, for the first time in team history, all 82 games plus playoffs were broadcast on television. At least 20 of them aired on WGN-TV (Channel 9), the first time the Blackhawks had been seen on local over-the-air television in 30 years.

2008: Centennial Season Uniform Modifications

For the team's 2025-26 centennial season, the Blackhawks modified their current red home uniforms, adding lace-up collars and gold trim around the crest and back numbers. The 100th anniversary patch replaced the "crossing tomahawks" patch on the right shoulder. Also during the season, the alternate black uniform they previously wore from 1996 to 2007 and in the 2008–09 season was brought back.

2008: Barinka Traded to the Senators

In 2008, Michal Barinka was traded to the Ottawa Senators.

2008: Brought Back Third Jersey Design

In 2008, The Blackhawks brought back third jersey design that was primarily black with red and white stripes.

2008: Logo voted best in NHL

In 2008, The Hockey News' staff voted the Blackhawks' main logo to be the best in the NHL.

2008: Blackhawks Playoff Drought Ends

The Chicago Blackhawks ended the playoff drought that began in 1997-98 and lasted until 2008-09.

May 11, 2009: Blackhawks welcome one millionth fan

On May 11, 2009, the Blackhawks welcomed their one millionth fan of the season at the United Center before game 6 of the conference semifinals.

July 14, 2009: Stan Bowman Promoted to General Manager

On July 14, 2009, Dale Tallon was demoted to senior advisor, and Stan Bowman was promoted to general manager of the Blackhawks.

December 1, 2009: Kane, Toews, and Keith Re-signed to Contract Extensions

On December 1, 2009, the Blackhawks re-signed Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews to contract extensions worth $31.5 million over five years, and Duncan Keith to a 13-year extension worth $72 million.

2009: Jerseys for 2009 Winter Classic

For the 2009 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore jerseys based on the design worn in the 1936–37 season.

2009: Alternates Worn Until 2009

For the 2014 Stadium Series, the Blackhawks wore a black uniform similar to the alternates they wore from 1996 to 2009.

2009: Sexual Assault Allegations

In 2009, Kyle Beach was allegedly sexually assaulted by Brad Aldrich, the team's former video coach.

2009: Winter Classic Jerseys

In 2009, The Blackhawks brought Winter Classic jerseys.

2009: Special Camouflage Jerseys on Veterans Day

Since 2009, the Blackhawks have worn special camouflage jerseys on Veterans Day during their pregame warm-ups. The jerseys are later sold in auctions to raise money for the USO of Illinois.

April 6, 2010: Hawks win 50th game, setting a new record

On April 6, 2010, the Blackhawks won their 50th game of the 2009-10 season against the Dallas Stars, setting a new franchise record for wins in a season.

2010: Stanley Cup Final games broadcast on WGN

During the 2010 Stanley Cup Final, the Cubs agreed to allow the Blackhawks games to be broadcast on WGN. This allowed the Cup Final's games to be heard over a larger area due to WGN's clear-channel signal.

2010: Winter Classic Design as Third Jersey

For the 2009–10 season, the Blackhawks used this Winter Classic design as their third jersey until they retired it after the 2010–11 season.

2010: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

2010: Call to Retire Logo

In 2010, sports columnist Damien Cox called on the Blackhawks franchise to retire the "racially insensitive" logo. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) believes that all Native-themed logos, including that of the Blackhawks, "continue to profit from harmful stereotypes originated during a time when white superiority and segregation were common place."

2010: Team Deferred Action on Aldrich

In 2010, team leadership met and deferred any action on Aldrich until after the Stanley Cup Final series.

2010: Stanley Cup win

In 2010, under Rocky Wirtz's ownership, the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.

February 15, 2011: Broadcast contract renewed with WGN-TV

On February 15, 2011, the team announced the renewal of their broadcast contract with WGN-TV for the next five years, starting in the 2011-12 NHL season.

April 10, 2011: Blackhawks Clinch Playoff Berth on Final Day

On April 10, 2011, the Blackhawks lost their regular season finale to the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 but still received the eighth and final seed in the Western Conference after the Minnesota Wild defeated the Dallas Stars.

2011: Retired Winter Classic Design

After the 2010-2011 season, the Blackhawks retired Winter Classic design, with the only change in the design being the addition of the familiar "C" with crossed tomahawks on the shoulders.

2013: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

2013: Stanley Cup win

In 2013, under Rocky Wirtz's ownership, the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.

January 2014: Blackhawks at Stadium Series

In January 2014, the Blackhawks played their second outdoor game in franchise history, against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Soldier Field as part of the 2014 Stadium Series, defeating the Penguins 5–1 in front of 62,921 fans.

May 15, 2014: Broadcast deal extended with WGN-TV

On May 15, 2014, the broadcast deal with WGN-TV was extended for three more years, keeping the team on Channel 9 until the end of the 2018-19 season.

2014: Black Uniform for 2014 Stadium Series

For the 2014 Stadium Series, the Blackhawks wore a black uniform similar to the alternates they wore from 1996 to 2009. The 2014 Stadium Series jerseys features chrome-treated logo designs inspired by the NHL shield. Numbering on the back of the jersey is enlarged and sleeve numbers are angled to improve visibility in outdoor venues.

2014: Pat Foley awarded Foster Hewitt Memorial Award

In 2014, Pat Foley, a Blackhawks broadcaster, was awarded the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame.

2014: Games moved to WGWG-LP

In mid-2014, Blackhawks games in scheduling conflict situations moved to WGWG-LP (Channel 6/87.7 FM).

2014: Blackhawks sign Brad Richards and Scott Darling

In the 2014 off-season, prior to the beginning of the 2014–15 season, the Blackhawks signed veteran center Brad Richards and rookie goaltender Scott Darling to one-year contracts.

2015: 2015 Winter Classic Uniform

For the 2017 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms very similar to those worn at the 2015 Winter Classic. Modifications included a logo that the franchise used from 1957-1965 with the roundel and lettering removed, as well as changes to the colors placed on the tomahawk.

2015: Blackhawks win Stanley Cup Final

In 2015, the Blackhawks defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2015 Stanley Cup Final to secure their third Stanley Cup in six seasons, solidifying themselves as a modern day NHL dynasty.

2015: Blackhawks Trade Saad

In 2015, the Blackhawks traded Brandon Saad's negotiation rights (along with prospects Alex Broadhurst and Michael Paliotta) to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Artem Anisimov, Marko Dano, Corey Tropp, Jeremy Morin and fourth-round draft pick Anatoly Golyshev in the 2016 NHL entry draft.

2015: Stanley Cup win

In 2015, under Rocky Wirtz's ownership, the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.

November 2016: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus discontinue United Center shows

In November 2016, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced they would not return to the United Center in 2017.

2016: Bob Verdi awarded the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award

In 2016, Bob Verdi, a team historian for the Blackhawks, was awarded the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award.

2016: Kane Wins Art Ross and Hart Memorial Trophies

In 2016, Patrick Kane won the Art Ross Trophy and the Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP, and Artemi Panarin won the Calder Memorial Trophy.

2016: Blackhawks trade Andrew Shaw

In 2016, the Blackhawks traded Andrew Shaw to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for two second-round 2016 draft picks.

2016: Blackhawks trade Kimmo Timonen

In 2016, the Blackhawks traded veteran defenseman Kimmo Timonen from the Philadelphia Flyers for second-round picks in 2015 and 2016, and Andrew Desjardins from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for Ben Smith.

2016: 2016 Stadium Series Uniform

In 2016, the Blackhawks wore a unique white uniform for the Stadium Series game against the Minnesota Wild, featuring black/red/black stripes, the current logo on the chest, a "C" with crossed tomahawks on the sleeve, and the four red stars from the Flag of Chicago on one side of the collar.

2016: Blackhawks lose in first round of playoffs

In 2016, the defending Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks were defeated by the St. Louis Blues in a seven-game series in the first round of the 2016 playoffs, marking the Blackhawks' earliest playoff exit since 2012.

January 1, 2017: NHL Centennial Anniversary Logo

On January 1, 2017, the NHL launched its centennial year with a special anniversary logo. The logo was designed for all thirty teams featuring a banner wrapped around the number 100 with the current NHL shield in the foreground.

January 5, 2017: Blackhawks Debut Centennial Patch on Home Jerseys

On January 5, 2017, the Blackhawks debuted the NHL centennial anniversary logo patch on their home jerseys. The patch was worn underneath the numbering on the right sleeve.

January 13, 2017: Blackhawks Debut Centennial Patch on Away Jerseys

On January 13, 2017, the Blackhawks debuted the NHL centennial anniversary logo patch on their away jerseys, after already debuting on home jerseys on January 5, 2017. The patch was worn underneath the numbering on the right sleeve.

February 2017: Blackhawks re-acquire Johnny Oduya

On February 28, 2017, the Blackhawks re-acquired Johnny Oduya in a trade with the Dallas Stars in exchange for Mark McNeill and a conditional fourth-round draft pick.

December 2017: Corey Crawford injured

In December 2017, goaltender Corey Crawford sustained an undisclosed upper-body injury, sidelining him for the remainder of the year.

December 16, 2017: NHL 100 Classic

Up to December 16, 2017, all home and away jerseys for all 30 teams continued to have patches of the NHL's centennial emblem, located above or below the numbers on their right sleeves, for at least up to the playing of the NHL 100 Classic.

2017: 2017 Winter Classic Uniform

For the 2017 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms very similar to those worn at the 2015 Winter Classic. Modifications included a logo that the franchise used from 1957-1965 with the roundel and lettering removed, as well as changes to the colors placed on the tomahawk.

2017: New Home and Away Uniform Collar Designs

For the 2019-20 season, the Blackhawks' home and away uniforms, unveiled for the 2017-18 season, remained nearly identical except for the new collar designs.

2017: Adidas Becomes Official Outfitter

In 2017, Adidas replaced Reebok as the official outfitter of NHL uniforms and licensed apparel. The Reebok "Edge" template was retired in favor of Adidas' "ADIZERO" template, which was introduced for the 2017-18 season. The home and away uniforms remained nearly identical, except for the new Adidas ADIZERO template and collar.

2017: Disney on Ice Last Two Week Show

In 2017, Disney on Ice performed its last two-week show at the United Center.

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2017: Best Uniform in NHL History

In 2017, the Blackhawks were voted to have the best uniform in the history of the NHL in a fan-vote conducted by the NHL.

2017: Fifth Third Arena Opens

In 2017, the Blackhawks' practice facility, the Fifth Third Arena, opened on Chicago's Near West Side. The 125,000-square-foot facility cost $65 million to construct and also serves as a community center.

March 20, 2018: Blackhawks eliminated from playoff contention

On March 20, 2018, the Blackhawks were eliminated from playoff contention, marking the first time in nine years that the team failed to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs.

August 7, 2018: Passing of Stan Mikita

For the entire 2018–19 season, the Blackhawks wore memorial patches in remembrance of Stan Mikita, who died on August 7, 2018. The memorial patch featured 21 in white on a black circle that is placed on the upper left corner on the front side of the uniform.

November 6, 2018: Blackhawks fire Joel Quenneville

On November 6, 2018, the Blackhawks fired head coach Joel Quenneville, as well as assistant coaches Kevin Dineen and Ulf Samuelsson. Jeremy Colliton was named the 38th head coach in franchise history.

2018: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

2018: Disney on Ice show condensed to one week

In 2018, Disney on Ice show at the United Center was condensed to one week.

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2018: End of broadcast deal with WGN-TV

The end of the 2018-19 season marked the end of the Blackhawks broadcast deal with WGN-TV.

January 2, 2019: Exclusive deal agreed with NBC Sports Chicago

On January 2, 2019, the Blackhawks agreed to an exclusive multi-year deal with NBC Sports Chicago beginning with the 2019-20 season, ending the team's broadcasts on WGN-TV.

May 2019: MB Ice Arena renamed to Fifth Third Arena

In May 2019, the MB Ice Arena, the Blackhawks practice facility, was renamed to Fifth Third Arena.

2019: Blackhawks draft Kirby Dach

After missing the playoffs for the second straight season, the Blackhawks won the third-overall pick in the 2019 NHL entry draft at the draft lottery, and used it to select Kirby Dach.

2019: Alternate Jersey

After the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks made their jersey from the game their alternate, wearing it for three more games in 2019 and in three games during the 2019–20 season.

2019: Poorest record of any Stanley Cup Champion

As of 2019, the 1937–38 Black Hawks possessed the poorest regular season record of any Stanley Cup champion.

2019: 2019 Winter Classic Uniforms

For the 2019 Winter Classic, the Blackhawks wore uniforms similar to those worn from the 1926–27 season to the 1934–35 season. The black and white uniform featured the black and white Native American head logo with the wording "Blackhawks" arched on top and "Chicago" arched below.

2019: New Home and Away Uniform Collar Designs

For the 2019-20 season, the Blackhawks' home and away uniforms, unveiled for the 2017-18 season, remained nearly identical except for the new collar designs.

2019: Shaw Rejoined Blackhawks

In 2019, Andrew Shaw had previously rejoined the Blackhawks.

2019: AIC Ends Ties with Blackhawks Foundation

In 2019, the American Indian Center of Chicago ended all ties to the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, stating they will no longer affiliate "with organizations that perpetuate stereotypes through the use of 'Indian' mascots."

2019: Second "Reverse Retro" Uniform Released

In the 2022–23 season, a second "Reverse Retro" uniform was released, based on their 1938 uniform. Across the chest is "CHICAGO" in white with red trim, inspired by the 2019 Winter Classic crest

2019: Blackhawks Sign Ryan Carpenter and Robin Lehner

Prior to the 2019–20 season, the Blackhawks signed center Ryan Carpenter and goaltender Robin Lehner on the opening day of free agency.

2019: Tommy Hawk Inducted into Mascot Hall of Fame

Tommy Hawk, the Blackhawks mascot, was inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2019.

July 7, 2020: Blackhawks Defend Team Name and Logo

On July 7, 2020, the Blackhawks issued a press release to defend their team's name and logo, stating that it "symbolizes an important and historic person, Black Hawk of Illinois' Sac & Fox Nation."

December 16, 2020: Danny Wirtz named CEO

On December 16, 2020, Danny Wirtz, son of Rocky Wirtz, was named the new chief executive officer of the Blackhawks.

2020: Advertising on Game Day Uniforms

Beginning with the 2020-21 season, the NHL allowed advertising on gameday uniforms for the first time. The Blackhawks' first helmet ad sponsor was United Airlines.

2020: "Reverse Retro" Alternate Uniforms

For the 2020-21 NHL season, the Blackhawks wore "Reverse Retro" alternate uniforms, largely inspired by the team's 1940s uniforms.

2020: Blackhawks Fire John McDonough

In 2020, the Blackhawks fired John McDonough, who served as the Blackhawks' president for 13 years.

January 2021: 2020-21 Season Delayed and Condensed

In January 2021, the 2020–21 NHL season was delayed and condensed to 56 games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Blackhawks also signed multiple forwards during free agency.

August 10, 2021: Passing of Tony Esposito

For the entire 2021–22 season, the Blackhawks wore memorial patches in remembrance of Tony Esposito, who died on August 10, 2021. The memorial patch featured 35 in white on a black circle that is placed on the upper left corner on the front side of the uniform.

October 26, 2021: Bowman and MacIsaac Resigned

On October 26, 2021, Stan Bowman and Al MacIsaac resigned following the release of a report detailing the team's handling of the Kyle Beach sexual assault allegations. The NHL also fined the Blackhawks $2 million.

2021: Colliton Fired

In 2021, Jeremy Colliton was fired as head coach and replaced by Derek King.

2021: Team Traded Veteran Duncan Keith

In 2021, the Blackhawks traded veteran defenseman Duncan Keith to the Edmonton Oilers and acquired Seth Jones from the Columbus Blue Jackets. The team also acquired Marc-Andre Fleury from the Vegas Golden Knights and signed Jake McCabe and Jujhar Khaira.

2021: Adidas Introduces Environmentally-Friendly Uniforms

Starting with the 2021-22 NHL regular season, Adidas introduced new environmentally-friendly uniforms for all teams with its Adidas ADIZERO Primegreen Authentic template, made with a minimum of 50% recycled content. For the Blackhawks, the logo on their uniforms now feature raised markings.

March 1, 2022: Kyle Davidson Named General Manager

On March 1, 2022, Kyle Davidson was formally named the team's general manager.

June 27, 2022: Luke Richardson Named Head Coach

On June 27, 2022, Luke Richardson was named the 40th head coach in franchise history.

2022: Second "Reverse Retro" Uniform Released

In the 2022–23 season, a second "Reverse Retro" uniform was released, based on their 1938 uniform.

July 2023: Danny Wirtz named chairman

In July 2023, Danny Wirtz was named chairman of the Blackhawks following the death of his father, Rocky Wirtz.

July 25, 2023: Rocky Wirtz Died

On July 25, 2023, Rocky Wirtz unexpectedly died at age 70.

2023: Patrick Kane traded to the Arizona Coyotes

In 2023, Patrick Kane was traded to the Arizona Coyotes and later sent to the New York Rangers. The Blackhawks received Andy Welinski, a conditional second-round pick in 2023 and a fourth-round pick in 2025.

2023: Blackhawks Won 2023 Draft Lottery

In 2023, the Blackhawks won the draft lottery and drafted Connor Bedard first overall. They acquired Taylor Hall, Nick Foligno and Corey Perry. The team also acquired Josh Bailey and a 2026 second-round draft pick.

June 5, 2024: Blackhawks to join Chicago Sports Network

On June 5, 2024, the Blackhawks announced they would join the newly established Chicago Sports Network.

June 2024: Circa Sports Becomes Official Jersey Patch Sponsor

The Blackhawks announced a multi-year partnership with Circa Sports in June 2024, making them the official jersey patch sponsor for the team's home red uniforms.

December 5, 2024: Luke Richardson Fired

On December 5, 2024, the Blackhawks fired Luke Richardson and named Anders Sorensen interim head coach.

2024: Broadcast Team Lineup in 2024

As of the 2024-25 season, Rick Ball and John Wiedeman are the play-by-play announcers on television and radio, respectively. Darren Pang and Troy Murray serve as the TV and radio color commentator respectively, with Caley Chelios providing occasional game analysis.

November 23, 2025: Content Updated

Content Updated November 23, 2025

2025: Retro-Inspired Red Uniforms for 2025 Winter Classic

For the Blackhawks' 2025 Winter Classic game, they wore retro-inspired red uniforms that incorporated a lace-up collar. The cream numbers on the back featured subtle pinstripes as an homage to Wrigley Field's main tenants, the Chicago Cubs.

2025: Centennial Season Uniform Modifications

For the team's 2025-26 centennial season, the Blackhawks modified their current red home uniforms, adding lace-up collars and gold trim around the crest and back numbers. The 100th anniversary patch replaced the "crossing tomahawks" patch on the right shoulder.