As the Chicago Blackhawks head into the 2024-25 season, there is a good picture of who we are going to see on the team. Each player is playing to win more than for individual accomplishments, but every player also has an important career milestone that they can reach this season as well.

Another year for hockey is here—it’s time for a breakout season where players make their mark and influence games unexpectedly. While the spotlight often shines on star players, it’s the hidden gems that shift a team’s balance.

When the hapless Chicago White Sox lost their 10th straight game on Sunday, 2-0 to the New York Mets, they fell to 31-107 and set a new franchise record for most losses in a season. The Blackhawks' 2023-24 winning percentage wasn't as pathetic, but at 23-53-6 they also set a team record for most losses in a season.

Last Word on Hockey’s Puck Drop Previews are back for the 2024-25 season! As the regular season approaches, Last Word will preview each team’s current outlook and stories to watch for the upcoming year.