Connor Bedard is seeing changes unfold within the Chicago Blackhawks as the team makes adjustments for the upcoming season. One of those moves came in a recent trade with the Florida Panthers, bringing in a top draft pick and a 23-year-old goaltender.
According to Frank Seravalli, the Blackhawks traded defenseman Seth Jones to Florida in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick and goaltender Spencer Knight, who has played four seasons in the NHL since making his professional debut in 2020.
Bedard has been teammates with Seth Jones since the 2023-24 season. The 12-year NHL veteran defenseman had been with the Blackhawks from 2021 until his recent trade, during which he set personal records like 46 assists in the 2021-22 season and his second-highest points tally with 51 that same season.
On another note, Spencer Knight’s arrival heralds a new chapter in the defense of Chicago’s net. Slightly older than Bedard, Knight isn’t a regular starter yet, but he’s been working hard to secure the position. In 2024, he started in 21 of 23 games, posting a 12-8 record before leaving the Panthers.
A Pick and Salary Relief for the Florida Panthers
The Panthers not only acquire a veteran defenseman, but they also receive financial assistance in the trade, as the Blackhawks will retain $2.5 million of his salary for the next five seasons. Additionally, Florida gains a 2026 fourth-round pick as part of the deal.
Spencer Knight career stats with Florida
Spencer Knight had a notable career with the Florida Panthers, starting from the 2020-21 season. Over four NHL seasons, he played 80 games, achieving 44 wins, 25 losses, and 7 overtime losses. Knight maintained a save percentage (SV%) of .900 and a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.87, with 3 shutouts (SO) and 12 goals saved above average (GSAA)