You're probably staring at your remote right now, wondering why the channel that used to have the Hawks is showing a random infomercial or local news. It happens to the best of us. Following Chicago hockey has become a bit of a scavenger hunt lately. Honestly, keeping track of regional sports networks and national deals feels like a part-time job.
If you are looking for what channel is the blackhawks game on tonight, the short answer is: they aren't playing tonight, Friday, January 16, 2026.
The Blackhawks just wrapped up a frustrating 3-1 loss to the Calgary Flames last night at the United Center. Nick Foligno got things moving early, but the offense just vanished after that. It was one of those games that makes you want to check the schedule and see how soon they can redeem themselves.
That redemption chance comes tomorrow. On Saturday, January 17, the Blackhawks host the Boston Bruins. That game will be on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) for local fans and ESPN+ for those of you outside the Chicago market. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM CT.
Navigating the New CHSN Era
The biggest hurdle for most fans this season has been the shift to Chicago Sports Network. If you're looking for NBC Sports Chicago, it's gone. Done. Rest in peace.
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CHSN is the new home for the Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox. This change has left a lot of people scrambling. Basically, if you have a traditional cable package like Xfinity, you might need to check your specific tier to see if CHSN is included.
For the cord-cutters, things are slightly more straightforward but still require a specific setup. You aren't going to find CHSN on YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV right now. That's a huge pain for a lot of people. Instead, you've gotta look at services like Fubo or DIRECTV STREAM. Those are the primary streaming homes for the network if you want to watch the local broadcast.
What Channel Is The Blackhawks Game On Tonight (and Every Other Night)
Since there is no game tonight, use this time to make sure your setup is actually working. Nothing is worse than sitting down with a cold drink at 7:01 PM only to realize your app needs an update or your login expired.
The Local Viewers (In-Market)
If you live in the Chicago area, the vast majority of games—67 of them this season, to be exact—are on CHSN.
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- Cable: Xfinity, Astound (RCN), and Mediacom usually carry it.
- Streaming: Fubo and DIRECTV STREAM.
- The CHSN App: You can actually subscribe directly to the CHSN app now. It’s about $20 a month if you just want the Blackhawks, or $30 if you want the full package with the Bulls and Sox. It's a decent option if you don't want a full cable replacement.
The Out-of-Market Fans
If you’re a Hawks fan living in, say, Nashville or Denver, your life is actually a bit easier. You just need ESPN+.
Most of the games that air on CHSN in Chicago are available as "out-of-market" games on ESPN+. It’s part of the NHL Power Play package. Just remember, if the game is being played against your local team (like if the Hawks are playing the Avalanche and you live in Denver), it’ll be blacked out on ESPN+ and you’ll have to watch on the local Denver channel. Blackout rules are the worst. We all agree on that.
National Broadcasts
Every so often, the Blackhawks get put on the big stage. Tonight isn't one of those nights, but keep an eye out for these networks:
- ESPN / ABC: These are usually exclusive. If it’s on ESPN, it won’t be on CHSN.
- TNT: Same deal. TNT has a bunch of Wednesday night games.
- NHL Network: These are "national" but often use the local feed.
Why the Schedule Matters Right Now
The Blackhawks are in a weird spot in the standings. After that loss to Calgary, they are sitting around 12th in the Western Conference. They have flashes of brilliance—usually involving Connor Bedard doing something that defies physics—but the consistency just isn't there yet.
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Watching the games live is the only way to really see the progress. You see the chemistry building between Bedard and guys like Tyler Bertuzzi. You see Spencer Knight (who has been a solid addition in net) trying to keep them in games when the defense collapses.
The Bruins game on Saturday is going to be a massive test. Boston is always a heavyweight. If the Hawks can't find their scoring touch like they failed to do against the Flames, it's going to be a long night at the United Center.
Actionable Steps for Tomorrow's Game
Don't wait until tomorrow's puck drop to figure out your viewing situation.
- Check your CHSN access: If you're on Xfinity or Fubo, search for "Chicago Sports Network" now. If it doesn't pop up, you might need to call your provider or upgrade your package.
- Download the CHSN App: Even if you have cable, the app is great for watching on your phone if you're stuck at a kid's birthday party or out for dinner.
- WGN Radio 720-AM: If you're driving or just prefer the radio call, John Wiedeman is still the gold standard. It's the most reliable way to "watch" the game without worrying about digital blackouts.
- Sync your calendar: The game on Saturday starts at 7:00 PM CT. The next game after that is Monday against Winnipeg at 7:30 PM. Both are on CHSN.
The TV landscape for sports is messy right now. There's no way around it. But once you have CHSN dialed in, you're set for the bulk of the season.
Actionable Insight: Verify your login for the CHSN app or your streaming provider today so you aren't stuck troubleshooting when the Blackhawks take the ice against the Bruins tomorrow night.