The NHL released its schedule for the upcoming 2012-12 season -- which may be delayed or altered if there is a lockout -- a day after the NHL awards on Thursday.

The Blackhawks begin their campaign on Oct. 13 against the Columbus Blue Jackets at the United Center. Here are some of the highlights:

** The Hawks have three six-game road trips which include the annual circus and ice show trips. The six-game swings are Nov. 14-23 (Oilers, Canucks, Flames, Sharks, Kings, Ducks), Jan. 29-Feb. 9 (Blue Jackets, Flames, Canucks, Oilers, Sharks, Coyotes) and March 14-24 (Avalanche, Stars, Blue Jackets, Kings, Ducks, Coyotes). The Hawks' last regular-season schedule that featured more than two road trips of five-plus games was in 2006-07.

** The Hawks have a season-long seven-game homestand from Feb. 15-March 1, equaling a franchise-long mark set during the 1926-27 season (matched in 1951-52 and 1969-70). The seven opponents are: the Ducks, Bruins, Red Wings, Blue Jackets, Canucks, Senators and Wild.

** Six of the Hawks' first eight games and seven of their first 11 are at the United Center.

** The Hawks will play every team in the Eastern Conference at least one time.

** The Hawks meet the Coyotes for the first time since losing to them in the first-round of the 2012 playoffs on Oct. 30 at the United Center.

** The Hawks meet the defending Stanley Cup champion Kings for the first time on Nov. 21 at Staples Center.

** The Hawks end the season with a home-and-home against the rival Blues.

** The All-Star break is from Jan. 24-28.