Chicago Blackhawks Face Utah Hockey Club in Historic NHL Debut

The Chicago Blackhawks are set to make history as they face the Utah Hockey Club in the latter’s inaugural NHL game. The match will take place tonight in Salt Lake City, Utah, marking a significant occasion in the world of hockey as the Utah team embarks on its NHL journey.

According to Blackhawks.com Staff, fans can catch the game live on ESPN and ESPN+, or tune in to the radio broadcast on WGN-720-AM. The Blackhawks have a tradition of playing against teams in their first NHL games, having participated in such events against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Edmonton Oilers. Their record stands at 2-1-1 in these scenarios.

Recently, the Blackhawks named forward Nick Foligno as team captain. Foligno, who joined Chicago as an alternate captain in the 2023-24 season, recorded 37 points over 74 games. His leadership is expected to steer the team as they integrate several new players, collectively bringing a wealth of experience with a combined total of 4,920 games played and eight Stanley Cup wins.

Teuvo Teravainen is another notable player making his return to the Blackhawks. Originally drafted by Chicago, Teravainen left a mark during his time with the Carolina Hurricanes last season, achieving a career-high of 25 goals. His return is anticipated to bolster the team’s performance as they navigate the new season.

The team’s defensive line will see fresh talent with the debut of rookie Nolan Allan, who was drafted 32nd overall by the Blackhawks in the 2021 NHL Draft. Allan’s entry succeeds that of other recent defensemen making their NHL debuts in Chicago colors, such as Kevin Korchinski and Louis Crevier.

Beyond tonight’s game, the Blackhawks will embark on a four-game road trip, facing teams such as the Winnipeg Jets, Edmonton Oilers, and Calgary Flames. Their home opener is scheduled for October 17 against the San Jose Sharks, with a robust lineup of weekend and matinee games to follow throughout the season.