Tough blow for the Blackhawks and the season has yet to start…

The Chicago Blackhawks held their first preseason game on Tuesday and it was easy to spot that something had changed for the team and its fanbase.

The Hawks have entered a full rebuild and things started to shift quickly at the NHL Draft when GM Kyle Davidson pulled some significant trades, losing top forward Alex DeBrincat and Kirby Dach in the mix.

Then there have been the ongoing trade rumours surrounding Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews - it’s just been a mess that got messier on Tuesday.

As the Blackhawks hosted the St. Louis Blues for the first preseason game of the calendar, many insiders pointed out the lack of fans in the stands. Scott Powers of The Athletic commented:

“It’s going to be a small crowd for the Blackhawks preseason opener at the United Center. The 300 level has no fans. It’s expected considering the season-ticket holders no longer have to buy preseason tickets. Plus, there’s not exactly a buzz around this team, obviously.”

With tickets holders no longer having to purchase for the preseason and attend those games, they are already sending a message that this is going to be a difficult season for the Blackhawks.

Trade chatter is only likely to get louder closer to the deadline and in the meantime, new players and veteran will need to get adjusted to new head coach Luke Richardson. The bench boss has said that he won’t accept losing even if the Blackhawks’ roster is designed to finish near or at the bottom of the league this season.

But he might be losing some fans however as it was easy to see when looking at the stands on Tuesday night…