The Chicago Blackhawks enjoyed a successful 1995-96 season, finishing second in the Central Division with a strong 40-28-14 record and 94 points. Under head coach Craig Hartsburg, the team was led by legendary defenseman Chris Chelios, who recorded a team-high 72 points, and star forward Jeremy Roenick, who netted 32 goals. Their defensive prowess was a highlight of the year, as they allowed the fifth-fewest goals in the league and excelled on the penalty kill. This regular-season momentum carried into the playoffs, where they achieved a dominant sweep of the Calgary Flames in the opening round before their campaign concluded in a hard-fought series against the Colorado Avalanche.