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The Chicago Blackhawks host Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins in NHL regular-season action Tuesday night. Here’s how to watch the matchup and get the latest on Connor Bedard’s potential return.
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The Chicago Blackhawks return to the United Center on Tuesday night for an intriguing matchup against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. While the battle features two of the NHL’s most recognizable franchises, much of the attention will be focused on Chicago captain Connor Bedard.
The 21-year-old forward is moving closer to making his 2026-27 season debut after undergoing shoulder surgery during the offseason. Blackhawks head coach Jeff Blashill indicated Monday that Bedard was trending toward returning against Pittsburgh, although his availability still depends on a final evaluation.
Chicago enters the game with a 1-5-0 record and desperately needs an offensive spark after scoring just 12 goals through its first six contests. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, arrives with a 3-2-1 record and will begin a four-game road trip Tuesday night.
The matchup provides an opportunity for both teams to build momentum while featuring several players capable of making an impact.
the homestand continues ⏩
🆚 @penguins
📍United Center
⏰ 7:00PM CT
📺 @CHSN__ in market, @ESPNPlus out-of-market
📻 @WGNRadiopic.twitter.com/1M1AnsgHLr
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 13, 2026
TV Channel and Live Stream for Penguins vs Blackhawks
- Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2026
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Venue: United Center, Chicago, Illinois
- TV: Chicago Sports Network, SportsNet Pittsburgh
- Livestream: NHL Power Play on ESPN+, subject to regional blackouts
- Radio: 105.9 The X, Penguins Radio Network
Tuesday’s game will air on Chicago Sports Network in the Blackhawks’ local television market and SportsNet Pittsburgh for Penguins viewers.
Fans outside the participating teams’ local markets can stream the matchup through NHL Power Play on ESPN+, subject to blackout restrictions.
The game begins at 7 p.m. local time in Chicago, which is 8 p.m. ET.
Penguins vs Blackhawks Game Overview
The biggest storyline surrounding Tuesday’s matchup is Bedard’s potential return. Chicago’s young captain underwent shoulder surgery during the offseason and has missed the team’s first six games.
However, Bedard participated in full-contact practice Sunday, and Blashill indicated Monday that he was making encouraging progress. A final decision on his availability is expected after Tuesday’s morning skate.
Bedard recorded career highs with 30 goals, 45 assists and 75 points during the 2025-26 season, establishing himself as Chicago’s most important offensive player. His return would provide a significant boost to a Blackhawks team struggling to generate offense.
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Chicago has been outscored 26-12 through six games and has converted only one of its first 14 power-play opportunities. If Bedard plays, he could join Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov on the team’s top forward line.
Kantserov recently scored his first NHL goal, while Kane brings considerable experience and offensive creativity to the lineup.
Penguins With A Star Of Their Own
Pittsburgh enters the matchup with a different challenge. Crosby has experienced an unusually quiet start to the season, recording only two assists through six games.
The Penguins captain remains one of the NHL’s most accomplished players, but Pittsburgh will be looking for increased production from its top offensive unit. Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have been skating alongside Crosby, while Evgeni Malkin provides another experienced scoring option.
The Penguins have also struggled on the power play, creating another area to watch against Chicago. Pittsburgh enjoyed considerable success against the Blackhawks last season, winning both meetings by a combined score of 13-5.
Rust has been particularly effective against Chicago throughout his career, recording 14 points in 14 games.
Eastern Conference Vs. Western Conference
Tuesday begins a challenging road trip for Pittsburgh, which will also visit Colorado, Vegas and Utah.
Chicago, meanwhile, will attempt to turn around its disappointing start while potentially welcoming its most important player back to the lineup.
Whether Bedard makes his season debut or remains sidelined, the matchup offers an interesting test for two teams looking to improve their early-season performances.
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This story was originally published October 13, 2026 at 4:30 PM.