The Chicago Blackhawks opened the 2026-27 NHL season Tuesday night with a 5-2 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights, but the game still delivered one of the most emotional moments of the night for Chicago fans: Patrick Kane scoring in his first game back with the franchise.
Kane scored at 4:04 of the third period, cutting Vegas’ lead and giving Chicago a brief spark. The 37-year-old forward returned to the Blackhawks after leaving the organization in 2023 and signed a two-year contract with Chicago in July.
Patrick Kane Brings Back a Familiar Feeling
Kane’s return was always going to attract attention, but scoring in his first game back made the moment even more memorable. His goal came when Chicago needed offense most, with the Blackhawks trailing by two goals in the final period.
The goal could not change the result, but it gave fans a reminder of the player who helped lead Chicago to three Stanley Cup championships. Kane’s presence also adds an experienced voice to a roster that is still being built around younger players.
Jack Eichel Leads Vegas Attack
Vegas controlled much of the game behind a three-point performance from Jack Eichel. He scored once and added two assists as the Golden Knights began their title defense with a 5-2 victory.
Victor Olofsson, Trevor Connelly, Noah Hanifin and Mark Stone also scored for Vegas. Connelly’s goal came in his NHL debut, while Stone finished the game with the empty-net goal that sealed the result.
Carter Hart stopped 24 shots for Vegas, while Chicago goaltender Spencer Knight made 32 saves despite the five goals allowed.
Connor Bedard Watches From the Sidelines
Chicago entered the season without its biggest young star. Connor Bedard, who was named the Blackhawks’ captain in September, is beginning the season on an injured/non-roster designation after undergoing shoulder surgery in July.
Bedard’s absence puts more responsibility on players such as Kane, Frank Nazar, Oliver Moore and the rest of Chicago’s young core. The Blackhawks are hoping those players can help keep the team competitive while their captain works his way back.
Blackhawks Have a Young Core to Build Around
Chicago’s opening-night roster includes 13 forwards, eight defensemen and two goaltenders. Among the notable young pieces are Nazar, Moore, Kevin Korchinski and 2024 second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov.
The organization also made a significant long-term commitment to Moore before the season. The 21-year-old forward signed a five-year, $21.25 million extension that begins with the 2027-28 season. He recorded 19 points in 51 games last season.
| Player | 2025-26 result | 2026-27 situation |
|---|---|---|
| Connor Bedard | 75 points | Recovering from shoulder surgery |
| Oliver Moore | 19 points | Signed five-year extension |
| Patrick Kane | Returned to NHL action | Two-year Blackhawks contract |
What Comes Next for Chicago
The Blackhawks do not have much time to dwell on the opening-night defeat. Their next scheduled game is Thursday against the Utah Mammoth, followed by a Saturday matchup with the Buffalo Sabres. The early stretch will give Chicago another chance to evaluate its younger players while Bedard remains out.
For now, the opening night story is a mixture of disappointment and nostalgia. Chicago lost the game, but Kane’s return provided the kind of moment fans had been waiting to see since his departure.
FAQ
Why did the Blackhawks lose to the Golden Knights?
Vegas produced five goals and received a three-point performance from Jack Eichel. Chicago scored twice but could not keep pace with the Golden Knights’ offense.
Did Patrick Kane score in his Blackhawks return?
Yes. Kane scored at 4:04 of the third period in his first game back with Chicago.
Is Connor Bedard playing for the Blackhawks?
Not at the start of the 2026-27 season. Bedard is listed on an injured/non-roster designation while recovering from shoulder surgery.
