Oct. 29 vs. Detroit Red Wings: This is the second of three straight games against the Hawks’ archrivals and the only one of the three at home. Three games against the Wings in a six-day span should have a playoff feel in October and be a good indicator of how good this Hawks team will be.
Nov. 6 vs. Phoenix Coyotes: Wayne Gretzky, who broke the hearts of Hawks fans so many times as a player with the Edmonton teams of the 1980s, makes his first coaching appearance in Chicago. It won’t be the same as watching his genius on the ice, though. Maybe he can tuck one side of his suit jacket into his pants.
Jan. 11 vs. Philadelphia Flyers: The consensus Eastern Conference favorites bring the incomparable Peter Forsberg to town. Fans should hope he’s healthy by then.
Jan. 13 vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: Mario Lemiuex, Sidney Crosby and former Hawks goalie Jocelyn Thibault make their only Chicago appearance. The Penguins figure to be the NHL’s top draw, with Lemiuex ending his career and Crosby beginning his.
April 5 vs. Nashville Predators: Second-to-last meeting of the year with the Predators and possible showdown for the Central Division title.