Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NHL. Each week, we send out questions to the most plugged in Blackhawks fans, and fans across the country. Sign up here to join Reacts.
As the NHL prepares to restart the 2019-20 season, fans have reassessed where they think their favorite team stands.
In the latest SB Nation Reacts survey, NHL fans were asked if they believe their favorite team is a serious championship contender. Or, if their team is no longer playing, who that fanbase will turn to now.
With the worst winning percentage among remaining Western Conference teams, Blackhawks fans aren’t confident in the team. Less than a quarter of fans believe they have a serious shot at the Stanley Cup.
The Blackhawks return to action Saturday for their best-of-five qualifying round series against the Oilers. Chicago fans are likely pessimistic because it’s their nature to be so, but also deals with the team’s porous defense trying to slow down two of the NHL’s top four scorers this season in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Blackhawks fans did get a boost of confidence this week when Corey Crawford returned after missing all but the final day of training camp after a positive COVID-19 test.
There is some silver lining if the Blackhawks lose as they’ll join the other seven eliminated qualifier teams with an equal chance (12.5 percent) at the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NHL Draft in the Second Phase of the NHL Draft Lottery on Aug. 10. If Chicago is one of those eight teams but doesn’t get the No. 1 pick they could have the No. 9 selection provided the Canadiens receive the top overall pick. If neither of those situations play out, the Blackhawks will stay with the No. 10 pick. The 2020 NHL Draft is set for Oct. 9-10.
According to the survey, only 23 percent of fans would want their team to lose for an opportunity to select Alexis Lafrenière with the top overall pick.
To vote in the Reacts surveys and have your voice heard each week, sign up here.