The Chicago Blackhawks made a trade that sent Seth Jones to the Florida Panthers, while Connor Bedard got a new teammate in goaltender Spencer Knight. The Hawks are looking to improve in the 2024-25 NHL season and have good expectations in this trade.
Knight was an immediate acquisition for the Blackhawks, who saw their new goaltender make his debut in a 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, marking the Chicago franchise’s second straight win after a five-game losing streak.
Knight’s arrival is part of a rejuvenation strategy for the Blackhawks, especially after the Seth Jones trade, indicating a commitment to young talent. The 23-year-old goaltender was a first-round draft pick of the Panthers in 2019 and landed in Chicago after four seasons in Florida, where he received a message from star Bedard.
Bedard’s message in reaction to Knight’s arrival
“For sure. Obviously a very high pick and a young goalie who’s excited for a fresh start. Obviously super talented, so we’re excited to have him. It’s good, he got to come and get on the ice and kind of get that feeling out. Obviously we’re thrilled to have him,” Bedard said about Knight in the Hawks, according to NHL insider Charlie Roumeliotis.
Spencer Knight #30 of the Chicago Blackhawks tends the net against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at the United Center on March 03, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Bedard is referring to Knight’s arrival with the Blackhawks and his strong goaltending in the convincing win over the Kings. The former Panthers goaltender is expected to start the game against the Ottawa Senators, proving once again that he is a valuable player for Chicago.
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Knight’s contract situation
Knight is in the second year of a $13.5 million contract signed in 2023 and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of next season. The 23-year-old goalie is expected to be the starting goalie for the Blackhawks, finding the shot he didn’t get in his final months in Florida.
