Blackhawks Breakaway

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks’ defensive-zone coverage tweaks and adjustments to their power-play zone entries as the team returns to practice and treats it like a mini training camp. They discuss why the changes were made and how the penalty kill’s aggressiveness helped play a role in the decision-making. They also dive into Kevin Korchinski’s call-up and the opportunity in front of him while Wyatt Kaiser recovers from a lower-body injury, and debate whether the Blackhawks should return to an 11-forward, seven-defensemen lineup coming out of the break. To wrap up, Pat and Charlie recap an electric Olympic men’s hockey quarterfinal round, highlighted by three of four games going to overtime. They break down Team Canada’s dramatic win over Czechia that nearly turned into an upset, Team USA’s gutsy victory over Sweden, and more.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis evaluate the state of the Blackhawks heading into the Olympic break and recap the grueling stretch of 21 games in 40 days. They discuss the team’s power-play struggles, what needs to change coming out of the break, and Wyatt Kaiser’s injury, including whether it could impact Chicago’s approach at the NHL trade deadline. Pat and Charlie also hand out midseason report cards, grading the forwards, defensemen, goaltending, power play, and penalty kill. Plus, they dish out individual honors, including offensive MVP, defensive MVP, most improved player, most consistent player, and most surprising player. They wrap up the episode with a men's Olympic hockey preview, debating whether Team USA and Team Canada are on a collision course for a gold-medal showdown, and highlight a potential sleeper country to watch.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down Chicago’s 6-3 win over the San Jose Sharks to snap a five-game winless skid. The guys highlight the third line of Ryan Donato, Jason Dickinson and Ilya Mikheyev, who led the charge by combining for 10 points. Pat and Charlie also dive into the Connor Bedard vs. Macklin Celebrini matchup, addressing the comparisons between the back-to-back No. 1 overall picks. They discuss their friendship, competitive fire, and the traits that make each player special. The guys also examine Team Canada’s Olympic roster, which continues to take hits due to injuries, and whether that could open the door for Bedard to earn an injury replacement spot. Plus, Pat and Charlie give their flowers to Connor Murphy as the NHL trade deadline approaches, discussing his impact on and off the ice and whether he may have played his final game at the United Center as a member of the Blackhawks. They wrap up by discussing Artyom Levshunov’s development as the Blackhawks work with him on key foundational elements of his game, while also putting into perspective the cultural adjustment facing the 20-year-old defenseman.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down why Chicago’s power play has gone cold with a 0-for-17 stretch over the last seven games, and discuss recent unit shake-ups and practice adjustments aimed at fixing it. They also dive into Connor Bedard's game as he has just one goal in his last eight games since returning from a shoulder injury, and what the Blackhawks can do to get him going again. The guys discuss Bedard skating with Frank Nazar and Teuvo Teravainen (who’s tracking toward a return) and whether his recent play could impact Team Canada’s decision if they need an Olympic injury replacement. Pat and Charlie also take an early look at Chicago's trade deadline approach, plus Nick Lardis being assigned back to the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. The show wraps up with a preview of the Moms Trip and a recap of an emotional Hockey Fights Cancer Night at the United Center.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down a memorable weekend for the Blackhawks, highlighted by the return of longtime former captain Jonathan Toews. They discuss Toews receiving one of the loudest and longest ovations ever at the United Center and reflect on his lasting impact on the city of Chicago and the Blackhawks community. Pat and Charlie also weigh in on Chicago Bears star quarterback Caleb Williams electrifying the crowd with his surprise front-row appearance alongside Cubs star outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, adding to an already special atmosphere. They discuss the uniqueness of Chicago’s young sports stars showing support for one another. Plus, the guys recap Centennial Celebration Night, which honored the Blackhawks’ Banner Years with tributes to the 2010, 2013 and 2015 Stanley Cup teams and featured more than 25 alumni in attendance along with the Stanley Cup itself.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down a wild week for the Blackhawks, as a stomach virus ripped through the locker room, including Connor Bedard. They explain just how bizarre Friday’s game was and also discuss Drew Commesso’s 36-save shutout in Nashville for his first career NHL win. They also dive into Saturday’s Chicago sports frenzy and how the Blackhawks are capitalizing on the Chicago Bears’ playoff energy. Plus, they share their thoughts on whether Bedard could replace Brayden Point on Team Canada if Point’s injury keeps him out of the Olympics, Tyler Bertuzzi’s heater, the terrific special teams, and more. Pat and Charlie later discuss Patrick Kane’s 500th career NHL goal with the Detroit Red Wings and his emotional postgame locker room speech, then look ahead to Saturday’s Centennial Celebration Night, which will feature more than 25 Stanley Cup winners in the building, before Jonathan Toews makes his return to the United Center on Monday for the first time as a visitor. They wrap up the show with prospect updates on No. 3 overall pick Anton Frondell and 2023 second-round pick Roman Kantserov, who’s having a historically great season in the KHL.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis discuss the looming return of Connor Bedard, who spoke to the media for the first time about his shoulder injury since Dec. 12. They also react to Bedard being left off Team Canada’s initial 25-man roster for the 2026 Olympics and examine his mature response and mindset. Pat and Charlie also break down the Blackhawks’ 4-0-0 start to 2026, how the team has pulled within three points of a playoff spot, and the impressive play of the special teams. They wrap up the show by previewing Saturday’s Chicago sports frenzy, with the Blackhawks, Bears and Bulls all in action at the same time.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks’ 4-1-1 stretch since the three-day holiday break and discuss why the time off came at the perfect moment for a team navigating the losses of Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar. The guys dive into head coach Jeff Blashill’s impact during a low point, including his use of positive reinforcement after the ugly 7-3 loss to Pittsburgh and why he felt it was necessary. Pat and Charlie also discuss Tyler Bertuzzi’s hot streak, the veterans stepping up with Bedard and Nazar out, and the goaltending of Spencer Knight and Arvid Söderblom finding their form again. The duo then weigh in on Bedard being left off Team Canada’s initial 25-man Olympic roster and explain why Blashill struck the perfect tone in defending his player. They also touch on Team USA’s roster and highlight notable omissions. They wrap up the show by discussing whether there could be any fallout between the Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues on Wednesday night following Bedard’s injury on Dec. 12 in the last meeting.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis provide an update on Connor Bedard, who was spotted skating on his own before practice for the first time since suffering a shoulder injury on Dec. 12. The guys also break down the weekend games in Dallas and Pittsburgh, discuss the team’s continued struggles in the second game of a back-to-back this season, and more. Pat and Charlie also dive into head coach Jeff Blashill’s postgame comments, explaining why they believe he struck the right tone in expressing confidence in the group. The show continues with a look at the new lines at practice, including Nick Lardis skating alongside Teuvo Teravainen and Oliver Moore, and why the skill sets of Lardis and Teravainen could complement each other well. Finally, Pat and Charlie wrap up the episode with prospect updates on Anton Frondell, Vaclav Nestrasil and AJ Spellacy, who are all off to strong starts at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks being hit hard by the injury bug, with Frank Nazar sidelined for four weeks in addition to Connor Bedard already being out. They discuss the impact of their absences, who could step into expanded roles, and why Nick Lardis could be one of those players. The guys also dive into the seven total challenges over the last three games, attempt to clarify what constitutes as goaltender interference, and offer a solution for how the NHL could clean it up. To wrap things up, Pat and Charlie highlight the three Blackhawks prospects set to represent their countries at the 2026 World Juniors and share their Blackhawks-themed Christmas gifts.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down Connor Bedard’s upper-body injury, which he suffered with 0.8 seconds left in St. Louis, and discuss the latest update that he will be sidelined through at least December. The guys examine the impact the injury will have on the Blackhawks, how it could affect Bedard’s chances of making Team Canada’s Olympic roster, and more. They also discuss Nick Lardis’ NHL debut and how he could help fill the offensive void in the meantime. Pat and Charlie also recap Laurent Brossoit’s AHL conditioning stint and discuss the plan moving forward after the Blackhawks placed him on waivers. Plus, they highlight Saturday’s memorable Centennial Celebration night, which featured the return of retired public address announcer Harvey Wittenberg, organist Frank Pellico, and soloist Wayne Messmer to help recreate the Chicago Stadium experience. And, of course, Patrick Kane was in town and put on a show in the first period.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks’ bounce-back 3-0 shutout win over the New York Rangers after a rough end to their four-game road trip, where they were outscored by a combined 12 goals in Los Angeles and Anaheim. Pat and Charlie discuss Spencer Knight’s 21-save shutout in front of Team USA head coach Mike Sullivan and make the case for his inclusion on Team USA’s 2026 Olympic roster. They also highlight another multi-point performance from Connor Bedard and explain why he deserves a spot on Team Canada — plus where they’d slot him in the lineup. The guys also debate the NHL’s hand-pass rule, weigh in on Sam Rinzel’s AHL assignment and why it was necessary, and look ahead to Patrick Kane’s pursuit of 500 career goals as he prepares to face Chicago on Saturday night at the United Center.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks snapping their five-game winless skid with a comeback win over the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday. They dive into how the team flipped the script, rallying from a 3–0 deficit to score five unanswered, and discuss Connor Bedard’s four-point outing, including his fiery battle with former World Junior roommate Mason McTavish. The guys also touch on Bedard’s growing case for Team Canada’s 2026 Olympic roster as the calendar turns to December, the Blackhawks somehow remaining in a playoff spot despite the recent skid, and the goaltending picture cooling off. They wrap by examining what Laurent Brossoit’s upcoming AHL conditioning stint might look like and previewing the four-game West Coast road trip ahead.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down Chicago’s three-game losing streak and explain why Sunday’s 1–0 loss to the first-place Colorado Avalanche was still a step in the right direction. They also discuss Connor Bedard’s matchup against Nathan MacKinnon’s line with a member of Team Canada’s management group for the 2026 Olympics in attendance and weigh in on the questionable officiating we’ve seen lately. Pat and Charlie react to NHL Insider Frank Seravalli’s latest reporting on Bedard’s contract negotiations and share their thoughts on the early projections. They also dive into the viral video of Bedard being swarmed by autograph-chasing resellers and defend Bedard in the process. The guys wrap up the episode by offering three Blackhawks-themed things they’re thankful for.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis dissect the controversial no-call on Connor Bedard’s late third-period breakaway against Seattle and the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that followed after Bedard voiced his frustration. The ensuing power play opened the door for the Kraken’s game-winner, and the guys debate whether Bedard was justified in arguing his case. Pat and Charlie also break down Ryan Lindgren’s hit to the head on Andre Burakovsky, who left the game and is expected to miss at least one contest. They then shift to Bedard’s hat-trick performance against Calgary, with Team Canada assistant GM Don Sweeney watching from the United Center. Is Bedard forcing his way onto the 2026 Olympic roster or is it still a long shot? Finally, the crew sends off producer Edgar Perez in his final episode.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down Chicago’s 4-0-1 run over the last five games and how seamlessly players have stepped up amid injuries. They dive into Frank Nazar’s return, the tough break for Nick Foligno, and the growing confidence of Artyom Levshunov, who delivered arguably his best performance as a Blackhawk on Saturday against Toronto. The guys also discuss Sam Rinzel’s healthy scratch and explain why it could help his development, much like it did for Levshunov. Plus, a conversation about the power play finally turning a corner, a rare Laurent Brossoit sighting, and a look back at a memorable Centennial Celebration Night to close out The Originals chapter in front of a sellout crowd.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down a 3-0-0 finish to the six-game road trip after a rocky 0-2-1 start. They highlight a flawless special teams performance in Sunday’s win over Detroit, Tyler Bertuzzi perfecting the “human backboard” play on the power play, and Connor Bedard climbing to the top of the NHL points leaderboard after back-to-back four- and three-point games — and whether Team Canada should include him on its roster for the 2026 Olympics. Pat and Charlie also discuss standout performances from goaltenders Spencer Knight and Arvid Söderblom, the steady development of Artyom Levshunov and his quiet 49-point pace, and how the Blackhawks rallied together in Calgary after the Frank Nazar injury. They wrap up the show by sharing their favorite memories of Duncan Keith as he prepares for his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the first half of the Blackhawks’ season-long six-game road trip and try to make sense of their 0-2-1 start. They share what made Hockey Night in Canada on Saturday so unique with Blackhawks-Oilers coinciding with Game 7 of the World Series between the Blue Jays and Dodgers and how Rogers Place aired the baseball game on the scoreboard during play. Pat and Charlie also dive into Andre Burakovsky’s fit alongside Connor Bedard, what’s different about Bedard’s return to his hometown of Vancouver this year, and whether Oliver Moore’s recent call-up could stick. Plus, a look at Lukas Reichel’s first six games with the Canucks as he faces his former team for the first time.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks’ 3-1 loss to Los Angeles, which snapped their five-game point streak (4-0-1). They discuss the team’s 0-for-5 night on the power play and the adjustments made at practice the following day, Ryan Donato’s strong follow-up to his career season, and the continued stellar goaltending from Spencer Knight and Arvid Söderblom. Plus, Pat and Charlie react to the Lukas Reichel trade and explain why a fresh start in Vancouver could benefit him. They wrap up by previewing Jonathan Toews’ first game against the Blackhawks in Winnipeg and Pat shares takeaways from his scouting trip to see Gavin McKenna at Penn State.

On this episode of the Blackhawks Breakaway Podcast, Pat Boyle and Charlie Roumeliotis break down the Blackhawks’ recent 3-0-1 stretch and discuss how the team has become as entertaining and watchable as it’s been in years.. They dive into the strides Connor Bedard has made this season, how his friendship and road roommate Frank Nazar has influenced him, and how both young stars are pushing each other to grow. Pat and Charlie also talk about Nick Foligno’s return after a brief family absence, the team’s penalty issues, and much more. Plus, Pat sits down 1-on-1 with Spencer Knight, who’s quietly been one of the NHL’s top goaltenders this season.