Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Windy City Benders Podcast

Things are getting ugly in Chicago, and we're not talking about the Hometown Remix jerseys.

The Blackhawks continue to struggle, and fan confidence in this team is quickly reaching an all-time low. So what exactly is going on behind the bench?

The guys break down last week's games and take a closer look at head coach Jeff Blashill's increasingly puzzling decisions. From questionable line combinations and in-game strategy to head-scratching coaching decisions and downright confusing postgame comments, there are plenty of questions that need answering.

What is Blashill trying to accomplish, and how much longer can this continue?

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @WCBPJarom

Tanner

Poetz: @PoetzyPxP

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The Chicago Blackhawks had a long break to regroup, reset, and get back on track. So why does it feel like nothing has changed? The guys are back to break down what’s going wrong, where this team goes from here, and whether there’s a realistic path back to winning hockey.

Tanner also brings us the first Farm Report of the season, spotlighting some of the future pieces who could help turn this franchise around. Finally, Jarom and Tanner wrap things up with a little trading card pack rip!

Is there hope for the Blackhawks in the short term, or is it time to focus on the future? Tune in to the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast to hear what the guys have to say!

Hosts:

Jarom @WCBPJarom

Tanner

Poetz: @PoetzyPxP

X: @WCBPJarom

Instagram: @WCBPodcast

Facebook: WCBPodcast

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The guys are back to break down another week of Chicago Blackhawks hockey! From Connor Bedard’s return to a thrilling overtime win and the highs and lows of a frustrating 4-0 loss, Jarom, Tanner, and Poetz cover all the action from another eventful week.

What’s clicking for the Hawks, what still needs work, and what can we take away from the latest stretch of games? The guys dive into all of that and much more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @WCBPJarom

Tanner

Poetz: @PoetzyPxP

X: @WCBPJarom

Instagram: @WCBPodcast

Facebook: WCBPodcast

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Week two of the Blackhawks season has come and gone, and after a week to forget, there were at least a few more bright spots to take away from the latest stretch of games.

The guys break down all the action from the Blackhawks’ last three games, covering everything from Artyom Levshunov and Frank Nazar’s questionable suspension to the lack of fight from both the team and the head coach. Plus, the guys discuss Bo Byram and much more!

Can the Hawks build on the positives, or are the same old problems starting to show up again? All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @WCBPJarom

Tanner

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The Chicago Blackhawks are back… and boy, it doesn’t feel like it.

Jarom and Tanner break down the first three games of the season and try to figure out just what is going on with this team. From a lack of effort from the players, to coaching struggles and everything in between, this is certainly not the start anyone had hoped for.

Can the Hawks turn things around, or are there bigger concerns brewing in Chicago?

All that and more on this week’s episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Hockey season is officially here, but before we kick off the 2026-27 season, we have to preview the Chicago Blackhawks!

The guys take a look at the Hawks’ roster and break down how they see each player fitting into the lineup. They also dive deep into their expectations for this team, what could go right, what could go wrong, and where they think the Blackhawks will ultimately finish.

And, of course, they wrap things up with their final predictions before the season gets underway!

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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It’s our final division preview as we wrap things up with the Central Division! While we’re skipping the Blackhawks, we take a look at the other seven teams in the division and what to expect heading into the new season.

Is this still the Avalanche’s division to lose? Is the Stars’ window closing faster than they had hoped? Is it all or nothing for the Wild if they can’t get Quinn Hughes to sign?

All this and so much more in this week’s episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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Preview season makes its way out West as the guys make a stop in the Pacific Division!

Last year, it seemed like this was a division that nobody wanted to win, earning the title of the NHL’s “pillow fight.” Can the Sharks continue to improve and make the playoffs? Will the hiring of Mike Babcock finally bring Connor McDavid and the Oilers their long-awaited Stanley Cup? And will Vancouver and Calgary be as bad as many are projecting?

The guys break down all eight teams and make their picks for how the Pacific Division will shake out!

Check out this and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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It’s Week Two of preview season, and the guys wrap up their look at the Eastern Conference with a stop in the Metropolitan Division! Last season saw several of these teams come up just short of playoff hockey, so could the Metro be one of the most competitive divisions in the NHL this year?

Can the Hurricanes repeat as Stanley Cup Champions? How will Matthew Schaefer follow up his unbelievable rookie season? Can the Rangers get back on track? And will Columbus finally get over the hump?

The guys break it all down and make their predictions for the Metropolitan Division on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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Atlantic Division Preview  ~ Episode 380

Hockey season is almost here, and that means it’s time for season previews! The guys kick things off by taking a trip through the Atlantic Division and breaking down what could be one of the most competitive divisions in the NHL.

Can the Buffalo Sabres build off last season’s magical run and repeat as division champions? Is the young Montreal Canadiens team ready to take the next step and become a consistent threat in the Eastern Conference? And after missing the playoffs last season, can the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs bounce back?

The guys break down each team, make their predictions, and discuss who they think will rise to the top and who could be left watching the playoffs from home.

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The guys are back with a short one this week as they get ready for preview season! Before those episodes begin, they take one last look at the latest Blackhawks prospect rankings — and this time, it’s from someone who definitely knows what he’s talking about.

The guys dive into Steven Ellis’ top 10 Blackhawks prospects and discuss his rankings, the players who stood out, and which prospects they’re most excited to watch heading into the new season. With Chicago’s prospect pool now ranked No. 1 in the NHL by Ellis, there’s plenty to be excited about for the future.

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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The guys are back after a week off, and boy, are we officially in August because Chicago Blackhawks news is getting pretty thin!

The guys kick things off by discussing the Kevin Korchinski and Ethan Del Mastro contract situations and whether there should be any concern that both RFAs remain unsigned this late into the summer. With both defensemen facing important seasons ahead, the guys break down what their next contracts could look like and what role they could have with the Blackhawks this season. They also take a look around the NHL at some of the other unsigned RFAs and discuss what those players could ultimately sign for — and whether there could still be a few offer sheets lurking out there.

Next up, the guys dive into Corey Pronman’s latest prospect pool rankings for The Athletic and, well… they have some thoughts. How does Chicago’s prospect pool stack up against the rest of the NHL, and why do these rankings feel absolutely brutal — not just for the Blackhawks, but for plenty of teams around the league?

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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The dog days of summer are here, and while the NHL offseason feels like it's dragging on, that isn't stopping the guys from talking Chicago Blackhawks hockey.

First up, they break down everything from last week's Upper Deck Rookie Showcase, where Roman Kantserov quickly became a favorite among the Chicago media. They discuss his comments about Connor Bedard, Patrick Kane, Spencer Knight, and why so many people are excited about what he could bring to the organization.

Next, the conversation shifts to Sacha Boisvert and what the best development path is for the talented prospect. Should he begin the season with the Blackhawks, or would spending time in Rockford better prepare him for long-term success?

The guys also dive into the newly released Blackhawks promotional schedule, including the highly anticipated Centennial Game and the excitement of seeing Patrick Kane back in a Blackhawks Centennial jersey.

Finally, Tanner wraps things up by breaking down the results of The Athletic's Blackhawks fan survey, highlighting several responses that may surprise even the most die-hard fans.

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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What's old is new again—Patrick Kane is officially back with the Chicago Blackhawks!

The guys break down Kane's new two-year contract and discuss what his return means, not only on the ice but in the locker room and for the city of Chicago as a whole. They dive into how the Blackhawks' forward lines could shake out, who stands to benefit the most from playing alongside No. 88, and what the team's leadership group could look like heading into the 2026-27 season.

To wrap things up, the guys set realistic expectations for the Blackhawks this season, debate where they could finish in the standings, and discuss whether this team is finally ready to take the next step towards playoff hockey.

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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The day Chicago Blackhawks fans have been waiting for has finally arrived—Connor Bedard has signed his new contract!

The guys kick things off by sharing their instant reactions to Bedard's extension, breaking down the contract details and what it means for Kyle Davidson's flexibility as he continues building the Blackhawks into a contender. They discuss how this deal impacts the team's salary cap outlook and what it could mean for future additions to the roster.

They also dive into comments from both Bedard and his agent about how the negotiations unfolded, why the deal came together when it did, and what Bedard had to say about his confidence in the direction of the franchise. It's an encouraging look into the mindset of the face of the Blackhawks as the organization continues its rebuild.

All that and more on the latest episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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The guys are back with another episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast, and this week the outlook is a lot more positive around the Chicago Blackhawks.

They kick things off by discussing Connor Bedard's recent surgery and the expectation that he'll miss at least the first month of the season. While it's far from an ideal start, the guys explain why they don't believe the Blackhawks will be in nearly as much trouble as some fans are predicting. Instead, they look at it as a huge opportunity for the rest of the young core to step up, prove they belong, and silence some of the critics before Bedard returns.

Next, they dive into NHL media's projected opening-night lineups and compare them to their own projected Blackhawks roster. From forward combinations to defensive pairings, they break down the biggest differences, debate who has the inside track on roster spots, and discuss which players could surprise heading into training camp.

To wrap up the episode, they look at what Kyle Davidson could still have up his sleeve before the regular season begins. Are there more trades to be made? Is another veteran addition still possible? The guys discuss the remaining offseason possibilities and what moves could help shape the Blackhawks heading into the 2026-27 season.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Free agency is well underway, and as expected, things have been pretty quiet in the Windy City.

The guys are back to break down this week's biggest hockey headlines, starting with Connor Bedard's injury scare in Vancouver. Bedard, who has been training in Vancouver this offseason, left the ice in pain on Thursday after appearing to lose an edge. Is this something Blackhawks fans should be concerned about, or is it simply an offseason scare with nothing to worry about?

Next, Kyle Davidson locks up another important piece of the future, signing Drew Commesso to a two-year contract. What does the deal mean for Chicago's goaltending situation this season, and where does Commesso fit into the organization's long-term plans?

Finally, the Philadelphia Flyers may have changed the NHL landscape by sending a monster offer sheet to Leo Carlsson. The guys discuss what it could mean for the Blackhawks, Connor Bedard's current contract negotiations, future superstar extensions around the league, and whether offer sheets are about to become a much bigger part of doing business in the NHL.

Check out all of this and more in Episode 373!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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Silly season is officially here! With the NHL Draft complete and free agency underway, things are about to get weird so enjoy our dose of copium!

Tanner kicks things off with a trip to the farm to break down the newest additions to the Chicago Blackhawks prospect pool. He explains why fans should be excited about this draft class, why the organization's boom-or-bust approach could pay off in a big way, and shares some early thoughts from Development Camp now that the prospects are back on the ice. Jarom also dives into some eyebrow-raising comments from Rockford IceHogs head coach Jared Nightingale regarding Kevin Korchinski.

Then it's time to talk about the NHL roster, starting with Bo Byram's new contract extension. The guys hop back aboard the cope train as they explain why they actually like the deal and why it has the potential to age very well over the long term.

To wrap things up, they break down the rest of the Blackhawks' offseason moves, share their reactions after Day 1 of NHL free agency, and discuss what they're hoping to see from Connor Bedard's next contract.

Check out all of this and so much more on this week's episode!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

Instagram: @WCBPodcast

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Kyle Davidson and the Chicago Blackhawks have taken their first major swing of the offseason, acquiring defenseman Bowen Byram in a trade that immediately sparked strong reactions across the hockey world.

On this episode, Tanner and Jarom break down everything that went into the deal, why the Blackhawks targeted Byram, and what his addition means for the future of the blue line. While many fans are excited about adding a young, talented defenseman with top-pairing potential, others are frustrated by the cost of acquisition and concerned about what it could mean for the organization's long-term plans.

The guys discuss both sides of the debate, making the case for why this could be a home-run move for Kyle Davidson and the Blackhawks while also acknowledging the concerns and emotions surrounding the trade. They examine where Byram fits into Chicago's growing core, what this says about the team's direction heading into next season, and whether this signals more aggressive moves could be on the horizon.

It's a trade that has everyone talking, and Tanner and Jarom have plenty to say about it.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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Power Talk ~ Episode 370

The 2025-26 NHL season has officially come to an end, with the Carolina Hurricanes lifting the Stanley Cup. Tanner opens the show by examining what made Carolina successful and what lessons their roster construction could offer the Chicago Blackhawks as they continue their rebuild.

Next, the guys dive into Scott Powers' latest pre-draft thoughts and expand on several of the topics he raised. What will the Blackhawks do with the 4th overall pick? Could Ivar Stenberg still be available when Chicago is on the clock, and if so, how would that impact the organization's long-term roster construction? If Stenberg is off the board, does Malhotra become a realistic option, or has Chase Reid always been the preferred target?

To wrap up Hawks Talk, the guys reflect on the tragic passing of former Blackhawk Kyle Calder and discuss what he meant to fans during some of the franchise's most difficult years.

The show closes with a look around the NHL, breaking down the recent trades between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers, as well as the deal involving the Colorado Avalanche and Nashville Predators.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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It was a slow news week for the Chicago Blackhawks, so the guys spent most of this episode diving into the biggest stories from around the NHL.

They kick things off by laughing at how their hypothetical trade ideas and offseason plans for the Blackhawks have somehow been labeled as unrealistic compared to some of the rumors currently circulating around the league. They also double down on their belief that Ivar Stenberg will end up in Chicago and discuss why the Blackhawks may be in the best position to acquire Jason Robertson.

The conversation then shifts to the reported Dylan Larkin trade demand and what it could mean for the league moving forward. Could more star players begin forcing their way out of organizations in search of Stanley Cup contenders or destinations in no-tax states?

Of course, there is still plenty of Blackhawks talk as the guys break down what the roster could look like if reports are true that Connor Bedard, Anton Frondell, and Frank Nazar will be the team's centers next season.

Check out all that and so much more on this week's episode!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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After a week off, the guys are back to break down the latest Chicago Blackhawks news and rumors.

They kick things off by discussing the Blackhawks' decision to trade the rights to prospect Jack Pridham to the Tampa Bay Lightning and explain why they believe many fans are overreacting to the move.

With trades expected to be a major part of the upcoming offseason, Jarom and Tanner unveil their Blackhawks Trade Tiers, ranking players and prospects from completely untouchable to "we'll help them pack their bags."

After establishing where current and future Blackhawks stand on their lists, the guys dive into some of the biggest rumored trade targets around the league, including Mathew Barzal and Jason Robertson. They discuss what a realistic trade package would look like and whether either player is worth the cost.

The ongoing NHL Draft debate continues as they revisit the possibility of the Blackhawks and Sharks swapping picks, while also discussing the Vancouver first-round pick, which now appears all but guaranteed to convey following the Canucks' latest coaching hire.

To wrap things up, the guys share some quick thoughts on the Stanley Cup Final and what they're watching as the NHL season reaches its conclusion.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The Guys are back with another episode of the Windy City Benders Podcast! On this week’s episode the guys open things up talking about their latest gut reaction to what the Blackhawks should do with the 4th overall pick. Looking at players who could become future Blackhawks, they discuss Roman Kantserov officially signing his entry-level contract and what it means for this team’s lineup next season.

While Roman is joining the Hawks, it appears Ilya Mikheyev could be leaving town as Kyle Davidson has reportedly made his signing rights available in trade discussions. The guys break down how that could impact the roster next year and who might be able to step into his role.

Moving around the league, the NHL announced key offseason dates along with the official offer sheet compensation costs. Tanner and Jarom take a look at some upcoming restricted free agents and debate which players could realistically become offer sheet targets for KD this summer.

Finally, the episode wraps up with an NHL Playoff update now that the final four teams battling for Lord Stanley’s Cup have officially been set.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Its been one week since the NHL Draft Lottery and the guys are back talking about the fallout from the Hawks falling to 4th overall. They take back a few of their heat-of-the-moment reactions but still stand by their feeling that Ivar Stenberg will be a Blackhawk. They get into how what fans think is the correct way for teams to approach the draft and what NHL front offices are actually going to do can be two completely different things. The guys also discuss why teams like the Sharks need to keep long-term success as their priority instead of chasing quick results.

Tanner brings a few mock trades he would love to see the Blackhawks make, including deals with the Flyers, Golden Knights, and Sabres. Jarom also gives his thoughts on why the Hawks should make a serious run at Jason Robertson and why a max offer sheet might not be the worst idea in the world.

Finally, the guys wrap things up with an NHL Playoff update.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

X: @WCBPodcast

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Jarom and Tanner are back for a special live episode of the Windy City Bender Podcast, reacting in real time to the NHL Draft Lottery. After the results reveal that the Chicago Blackhawks will be selecting fourth overall, the guys break down what that means for the organization. They dive into potential options at the pick and discuss how it could pave the way for landing a player like Ivar Stenberg.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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We’re kicking off Year 9 of the podcast by bringing back one of the founding fathers of the WCB Podcast, Andrew “Poetz” Poetzinger.

The guys take a look back at how the show started and how much it’s grown over the years before diving into Poetz’s journey pursuing his broadcasting dreams. He shares what it’s been like stepping into a play-by-play role with the Indiana Sentinels of the FPHL, how the organization has grown in just one season, and what he’s looking forward to heading into next year.

Switching gears to Hawks talk, the crew picks Poetz’s brain on who the Blackhawks should target in the upcoming draft, what needs to be addressed this offseason, and how he sees the goaltending situation shaking out next season. Tanner also throws out his latest trade idea involving an unhappy Russian in Philly.

They wrap things up with a quick NHL playoff update.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The season has officially come to an end for the Chicago Blackhawks—but not before a fun, high-energy matchup against the San Jose Sharks. The guys break down how the year wrapped up and reflect on their biggest takeaways from the season as a whole.

They shift into offseason mode, discussing what they want to see from the team moving forward—from potential roster additions to how current players should approach their training this summer.

The conversation then turns to Kyle Davidson’s extension, which sparks a deeper dive into offseason rumors. The guys debate the likelihood of the Hawks making a splash by targeting players like Matthew Knies or Jason Robertson.

They also revisit prospect talk after some passionate Swedish fans made strong cases for Ivar Stenberg over Gavin McKenna, adding another layer to the ongoing debate.

Finally, they wrap things up with their first-round playoff predictions.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The end of the line is near for the Chicago Blackhawks, and this season can’t come to a close fast enough. The guys break down what’s gone wrong in this final stretch, including a firsthand account from Tanner, who was in the building for the 5–3 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

Trying to come to terms with what this season became, the conversation shifts to the big question: how do you fix this team over the summer? While many Blackhawks fans are hoping for a splashy move, the reality might not be so simple. The guys dig into the idea of adding players like Matthew Knies and Jason Robertson, weighing the pros and cons of each potential move. Ultimately, they land on a conclusion that the realistic outlook for this offseason—and even next season—might not match what most of the fanbase wants to hear.

From there, they dive into the NHL Draft Lottery odds, discussing where they hope the Hawks land, and each rank their top four prospects for the team to target.

To wrap things up, Jarom revisits the preseason preview episodes to see which teams the guys picked to make the playoffs, comparing those predictions to how things actually played out.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The Chicago Blackhawks wrapped up the road portion of their season on a much more encouraging note compared to last year, and the improvement is starting to feel real. The guys dive into why this season should be viewed as a success when it comes to growth—whether it’s the structure, the competitiveness, or the way younger players are handling bigger roles. It’s not about the standings right now, it’s about building something sustainable, and you can see that foundation starting to take shape heading into next season.

A big part of the conversation centers around Kevin Korchinski and the noticeable shift in how fans are talking about him. Earlier in his development, the criticism was loud, but now that people are seeing the progression, the tone has changed. That leads into a broader discussion about patience—especially when it comes to a prospect like Artyom Levshunov. Development isn’t always linear, and the Korchinski experience should serve as a reminder that young defensemen, in particular, take time.

They also get into what the team should do with André Burakovsky and whether he fits into the long-term vision or if it makes more sense to move on. It’s one of those decisions that could signal how aggressive the front office plans to be this offseason.

To close things out, the guys zoom out and look ahead to the playoffs across the league. With the postseason around the corner, there’s plenty to be excited about—even outside of Chicago—as the next wave of contenders and storylines begins to take shape.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Title: End Of Season Woes ~ Episode 360

It was a rough week for the Chicago Blackhawks and the guys are back to discuss what went down and even though things seem really bad this just might be what is best for this team to take that next step in this rebuild.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The guys are back to break down another week of Chicago Blackhawks hockey, and it was almost like Groundhog Day as the team once again went 1-1-1. They dive into the good, the bad, and the ugly from last week’s games, but overall still come away with plenty of positives.

Switching gears, the big news out of Chicago was the arrival of third overall pick Anton Frondell. The conversation turns to what expectations should look like for the young forward over the final 12 games of the season, and what his addition means for the roster at this stage.

The future of this team continues to be the show’s favorite topic, as the guys check in on the rest of the prospect pool during Tanner’s Farm Report. They wrap things up by floating the idea of sending an offer sheet to a division rival RFA—and why now might be the perfect time to take that kind of swing.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The guys are back to break down another week of Blackhawks hockey, and there’s finally a real sense of momentum building.

They dive into the strides the team is making and how it’s starting to turn heads around the league — including André Tourigny of the Utah Mammoth — as the Hawks continue to show growth in key areas.

Former captain Nick Foligno returns to the United Center, and the guys reflect on the lasting impact he had in a short time. From leadership to setting the tone for the younger core, his influence on the culture is still being felt.

Looking ahead, they break down what fans should expect next season and why there’s real reason for excitement. This rebuild isn’t just theoretical anymore — it’s starting to take shape in a way that should have Hawks fans on the edge of their seats.

To wrap things up, they talk about the newest name in the mix, Sacha Boisvert, and why the criticism surrounding him just doesn’t hold up — especially when there’s little evidence to support it.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The 2026 NHL Trade Deadline has come and gone, and once again Kyle Davidson delivered a masterclass in roster management. The guys break down the moves he made and what clues they give us about how the team could be built heading into the summer.

They also dive into Frank Nazar’s recent hot streak, take a closer look at Connor Bedard and how he stacks up against other former first-overall picks through their first 200 NHL games, and discuss whether Drew Commesso is making a strong case to be the team’s backup goaltender next season.

To wrap things up, Tanner explains his new “ideal” draft lottery finish and why it might be the best possible outcome for the future of the franchise or at lease most entertaining for us Hawks Fans.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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With the Trade Deadline here, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves in unfamiliar territory. They’re not buyers — but they also don’t have much left to sell.

The guys break down the Connor Murphy trade and why it was a strong, forward-thinking move for this team. From asset management to long-term roster flexibility, they explain how this deal fits the bigger picture.

They also dive into who else could potentially be moved before the deadline and what that signals about the organization’s direction.

Then the focus shifts to the future. With confirmation that youth will be a priority next season, the rebuild is clearly still in motion. The guys discuss why the commitment to developing young talent matters, what it means for the roster construction ahead, and why fans need to take a breath, trust the process, and understand that sustainable success doesn’t happen overnight.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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USA Hockey is back on top of the world.

Both the Men’s and Women’s teams take down Canada to capture Olympic gold, and the guys break down both championship performances. They dive into what it means for the Men’s team to win their first gold medal in 46 years, and why—regardless of the political climate—they’re proud of what this group accomplished on the ice.

Then it’s back to Chicago as the Hawks return to action. The crew previews the upcoming four-game road trip, discusses Gavin McKenna landing on draft boards, and highlights what to watch for over the final 25 games of the season.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The Olympic break rolls on, but the crew is back with another episode of WCBPodcast!

In this edition, the guys dive into new information surrounding Chicago Blackhawks season tickets, including details about a still-to-be-announced event that fans may soon be hearing more about. They also break down potential trade scenarios as the roster freeze nears its end and the NHL trade deadline quickly approaches.

Shifting to international play, they discuss the Olympic hockey tournament and why it has lived up to the hype — highlighting standout performances and the overall intensity of the competition.

To close things out, the episode wraps with a fun Olympic jersey draft, as each host selects their favorite international sweaters.

A packed episode blending Blackhawks updates, trade speculation, and Olympic excitement.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The next era of the Windy City Benders Podcast is here! We’re excited to announce that we’ve officially joined the Inside The Rink Podcast Network to help take the show to the next level. As one of the top sources for hockey news, it only makes sense to call Inside The Rink home. Be sure to check out insidetherink.com for all your hockey coverage.

In this episode, the guys break down the Frank Seravalli bombshell from last Friday regarding the conditions tied to the first-round pick the Blackhawks received from the Florida Panthers in the Seth Jones trade. Tanner offers a glass-half-full perspective, explaining how, with a little luck, that pick could still end up as high as 10th overall for Chicago.

The conversation then shifts to a preview of the upcoming Men’s Olympic Hockey Tournament. The crew discusses pool winners, medal predictions, and potential individual award winners. They wrap things up by taking a closer look at Team USA — evaluating the roster, expectations, and who could emerge as the hero for the Stars and Stripes.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Hawks are limping into the Olympic Break and the guys are back talking about the last week worth of games, dive into Connor Murphy most likely being dealt but questioning if they might not be the best move, Gavin Mckenna news, and so much more! 

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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What looked like a weekend headed for disaster turned into a surprisingly solid stretch of Blackhawks hockey. The guys are back to break down all the action against the Hurricanes, Lightning, and Panthers, before looking ahead at the remaining schedule leading into the Olympic break. Jarom dives into the numbers to show how this team is improving, even if they still aren’t quite ready to be taken seriously as a playoff contender. They also react to TSN’s Face of the Franchise poll, and wrap things up with Tanner’s Farm Report.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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It was a rough week for the Hawks with lots of lows but despite the way the games went there was lots to be celebrated including the return of Blackhawks legends to the United Center. The guys talked about how good it was to see Toews back at the Madhouse and getting all the love he deserved and then some, they discuss what the trade deadline could look like for the Hawks and if they should take a shot at any Jason Robertson type players, and they wrap things up with Tanners Farm Report!

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The Flu Bug has hit the Blackhawks this past week and while things could have been much worse they still came out with a .500 record. The guys break down the games, talk about Korchinski’s timeline with the Hawks, Commesso’s readiness to make the jump next season and much more. 

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Just when we thought this team couldn’t sink any lower, they totally redeemed themselves. After last weeks episode talking about vets not doing their job and rookies maybe needing more time in the AHL, they come out and prove us wrong. The guys recap the 3-0-1 week, discuss Connor Bedard being snubbed from Team Canada, and wrap things up with a mega Farm Report from Tanner. 

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Just when it seemed like things couldn’t get any worse, the last two weeks of Blackhawks hockey happened. The guys are back from the Christmas break and dive into the Hawks’ current slide. Jarom believes the team’s struggles without Connor Bedard highlight the need for roster changes this offseason, while Tanner argues that major changes aren’t necessary. They also discuss what the Hawks should do if they land the first overall pick this summer, and Tanner wraps things up with an in-depth Farm Report, including a look at the World Junior Championships.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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On this week’s episode, the guys kick things off by breaking down the Quinn Hughes trade to Minnesota and what it could mean over the next year and a half for the Wild, Devils, and the rest of the league. From there, they shift gears into a recap of the past week’s games, including the tough loss of Connor Bedard to a shoulder injury. They discuss how big of an impact that injury could have on the team moving forward and what it might mean for Bedard’s Olympic aspirations. Jarom then puts Tanner on the spot, asking whether there should be any concern about this young roster and its lack of leadership experience. The episode wraps up with a mini Farm Report from Tanner.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The guys are back with another episode — and they’re kicking things off a little differently this week by trying to build the perfect mock trade to bring Quinn Hughes to Chicago. Along the way, they veer into plenty of side discussions, including Blackhawks prospects, Kyle Davidson’s work as GM, and some early Team Canada World Junior talk.

They eventually circle back to recap the week’s games: the unlucky loss to the Golden Knights, a solid win over the Kings, and… whatever that was against the Kings and Ducks. They wrap things up with a debate about the Olympics and why it’s ridiculous there’s any question about Celebrini or Bedard heading to Italy.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The guys are back to break down a roller-coaster week of Blackhawks hockey. From hard-fought battles to shaky goaltending from Soderblom — plus another appearance from a feisty Connor Bedard — this week had a little bit of everything. They also dive into the Laurent Brossoit situation and debate whether there’s a realistic path to keeping him around longer than expected. To wrap things up, they revisit last week’s Quinn Hughes take, and Jarom puts Tanner on the spot: what would he do if the Hawks landed both the first and second overall picks in next summer’s draft?

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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Happy Thanksgiving from the WCBP Crew!
The guys are back after a week that started off great, hit a speed bump, and somehow ended… not so bad. They break down all the games from the past week (skipping over Buffalo — we don’t talk about Buffalo) and dig into the many learning moments along the way.

They also get into the poorly executed launch of the Black jersey, featuring Jarom absolutely losing his mind for a bit. Tanner drops his Farm Report, and they wrap things up by looking ahead to Quinn Hughes coming to Chicago.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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With a short week of games the guys open up the show talking about NHL Free agency and if the league would ever adopt NBA/MLB style contract options or if it just isn’t in the nature of NHL players to want those clauses. They then shift to recapping the games against the New Jersey Devils and the Toronto Maple Leafs and finally wrap things up with the latest Tanners Farm Report.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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What a week it was for Hawks hockey. The guys break down the 3-0 finish to the long road trip and discuss how the team is defying all expectations and just playing some fun hockey. 

They also talk the absolute heater Connor Bedard has been on over the last eight games, talk Spencer Knight and Bedards chances at making their respective national teams for the olympics, take a trip to Tanners Farm, and then wrap things up with a quick NHL Talk feature lots of Ovi and Ducks talk.

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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The Hawks were brought back down to earth a little bit so the guys break down the highs and lows from last weeks games. Despite the record Tanner is still happy with how this team is playing. They also discuss Connor Bedards play and compare him to where Patrick Kane was at through 163 games into his career and why people need to give Bedsy more credit. They wrap things up with 3 stars of the week, October recap, and as always Tanners Farm Report! 

Hosts:

Jarom @ZachJarom

Tanner

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