Blackhawks GM Faces Pressure as Rebuild Progresses

Experts discuss when real pressure could mount on GM Kyle Davidson amid team's trajectory and roster moves.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Sports analysts Jay Zawaski and Mario Tirabassi discuss the current state of the Chicago Blackhawks and when real pressure could begin to build on General Manager Kyle Davidson as the team's rebuild progresses. They also react to a recent league safety board decision following a controversial hit in another NHL game.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks have been in a rebuilding phase, and the performance and decisions of GM Kyle Davidson will be crucial in determining the team's future direction and success. Fans and experts are closely watching to see how Davidson navigates this transition period for the franchise.

The details

Zawaski and Tirabassi break down the Blackhawks' current roster construction and trajectory, as well as potential moves that could define the next phase of the rebuild under Davidson's leadership. They also discuss the league's recent safety board ruling on a controversial hit involving the Boston Bruins and Florida Panthers, and what the decision could mean for player safety across the NHL.

  • The Blackhawks have been in a rebuilding phase since 2022.

The players

Kyle Davidson

The current general manager of the Chicago Blackhawks, tasked with overseeing the team's ongoing rebuild.

Jay Zawaski

A sports analyst who discusses the Blackhawks on the CHGO podcast.

Mario Tirabassi

A sports analyst who discusses the Blackhawks on the CHGO podcast.

Charlie McAvoy

A player for the Boston Bruins involved in a controversial hit.

Sandis Vilmanis

A player for the Florida Panthers involved in a controversial hit with Charlie McAvoy.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Blackhawks' performance and roster moves under GM Kyle Davidson will continue to be closely monitored by fans and experts as the team's rebuild progresses.

The takeaway

The Blackhawks' rebuild under GM Kyle Davidson is a critical period for the franchise, and the pressure on him to make the right decisions will only increase as the team's trajectory becomes clearer in the coming seasons.