Blackhawks: Play-in series vs Oilers dates announced

The Chicago Blackhawks five-game play-in series against the Oilers will start on August 1st, 2020. The rest of the dates have been announced by the league.

The first three games of the Chicago Blackhawks qualifying series against the Edmonton Oilers will take place on August 1st, August 3rd, and August 5th. Games 4-5 will take place back-to-back, on August 7th and August 8th if necessary.

The Blackhawks have a serious chance in this series, with key players returning from injury and grizzled vets having a long time off to get in shape and stay healthy. It’s a win-win for the team, as we’ll have a chance to see this team come into the playoffs as healthy as can be.

The Oilers are a tough challenge for the Blackhawks, as they have two of the best scores in the league in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Chicago will have to rely on playing solid defense, which should be at full health, and young players stepping up to the big moment.

My month out prediction is Blackhawks in four. I see them winning the first game, losing the second, and then winning the next two to take the series and move on to the second round. In round two, they’ll face off against the highest seed, which will be determined by the round-robin tournament for the top 4 seeds.

On Monday, the Blackhawks will return to practice to start their mini-training camp. From there, they’ll follow the NHL’s return to play plan, which will get us to the series against the Oilers.

I wish good health to all of the players and an exciting playoff run for everyone.