Crushing News for three Chicago Blackhawks and they are all officially banned

Three Blackhawks players won't be able to suit up for their home countries in the Olympics in 2026.

According to reports the IIHF has rendered the Russian Hockey Federation ineligible to participate in the latest Olympic games in Italy, in 2026.

The current geopolitical climate is to blame, as it'd be difficult to guarantee the safety of teams and players.

That is sad news for players like Artyom Levshunov (whose own country, Belarus, ban extends until 2025-2026), Ilya Mikheyev, and Philip Kurashev won't be able to put on Russia's colors in international competition.

Since it's doubtful that many Blackhawks will get to see postseason hockey for the next few years, playing in the IIHF and Olympic games could give them a chance to continue to build their game, and keep their edge.

Now, they'll have to continue the cycle of a season ending in April, and then the slog of training from the postseason until October, when the official NHL season begins.

Artyom Levshunov is one player who could afford to brush up on his play outside of the NHL. He's just gotten a long look in the NHL this year, playing a total of 18 games in the league and scoring 6 points (6 assists).

While Philip Kurshev is the one who'd need more time outside an NHL rink to find his game again, as he had one 50+ point season, and this season would ghost the Blackhawks.

The last time Ilya Mikeheyev saw international play with Russia was 2018-2019, where he played a total of 7 games and scored 3 points (3 goals).

It's ashamed it's come to this, but until the situation changes the status quo will remain according to the IIHF.