The 2007–08 Chicago Blackhawks season was the 82nd season for the National Hockey League franchise that was established on September 25, 1926. It began on October 4, 2007, against the Minnesota Wild. The 2007 season also marked the team's first winning season in six years. Key dates prior to the start of the season: * The 2007 NHL Entry Draft took place in Columbus, Ohio, on June 22–23. The Blackhawks had the first overall selection – using it to select Patrick Kane of the London Knights. * The free agency period began on July 1. * Captain Adrian Aucoin is traded to the Calgary Flames.