The Chicago Blackhawks are rolling out the perfect lineup for the first preseason game

The Chicago Blackhawks unofficially open their 2024-25 season against the Detroit Red Wings. The preseason may not officially count in the standings, but there are jobs on the line.

Kevin Korchinski is trying to prove he deserves another opening night roster spot (a subscription is required to access the link).

Frank Nazar is trying to avoid a stint in Rockford, as is Landon Slaggert. Veterans Ryan Donato and Joey Anderson are hoping to stay in the NHL. Lukas Reichel is being asked to prove he is a top-six player.

Head coach Luke Richardson is going to give everyone in a position battle a fair shot to win a job during the preseason.

General manager Kyle Davidson aged this roster a bit so his highly touted prospects would have to earn their time in the NHL.

Players vying for spots hoping to make an impression in game-action begins tomorrow. Richardson has the best mix of veterans and youth, especially since the preseason is also good to give prospects a taste of the NHL.

Connor Bedard and Tyler Bertuzzi get an opportunity to skate together against someone who is not wearing a Blackhawks sweater. It will be interesting to see if Teuvo Teravainen stays on the top line or if Taylor Hall gets elevated.

Frank Nazar and Nick Lardis have developed some chemistry during training camp. While Nazar is the only one of the two who has a shot of making the NHL roster this season, it is nice to get a preview of what those can do together on the ice as Lardis is still a big part of the team's future.

A.J. Spellacy had a great showing at the Tom Kurvers showcase, so it will also be nice to get a glimpse of what he can do even if he is on way back to the juniors at some point during camp.

However, he is the type of prospect that the Blackhawks should keep through the preseason so he can continue to soak in as much knowledge as he can from the team's veterans. Spellacy has the speed the team craves. Plus, he can pack a hit.

Korchinski also get his first game-action to convince Davidson and Richardson to keep him off the Alex Vlasic development plan and in the NHL.

Thankfully, Blackhawks hockey will be back tomorrow even if it is an unofficial game.