The Chicago Blackhawks are serious about turning the tide after years of languishing at the bottom of the NHL. Something must change heading into Connor Bedard’s third season and Jeff Blashill’s debut campaign as head coach. Chicago knows it—and is reportedly set to buy out the contract of one of Bedard’s teammates.
The Blackhawks need to prove they’re heading in the right direction after years of disappointment. Watching the Florida Panthers hoist back-to-back Stanley Cups has only fueled the nostalgia and melancholy in the Windy City. Fans remember the glory days of the 2010s—and can’t help but realize just how far they are from those times.
Bedard is the brightest beacon of hope, currently carrying the weight of the city on his shoulders. Blashill, on the other hand, is relatively unknown to fans in Chicago, and expectations are mixed.
However, the new bench boss has wasted no time making statement moves—showing fans that his hand won’t shake in the face of pressure. Now, as the buyout period is set to start in the NHL, reports indicate the Blackhawks are terminating the contract of one of Bedard’s teammates.
TJ Brodie #78 of the Chicago Blackhawks skates with the puck against the Colorado Avalanche during the third period at the United Center on January 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
One-and-done
According to Chicago Sun-Times reporter Ben Pope, the Blackhawks will buy out defenseman T.J. Brodie. Brodie’s first—and most probably last—NHL season with the Blackhawks was utterly underwhelming.
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NHL News: Blackhawks make first statement move on Jeff Blashill’s era by securing Connor Bedard’s star teammate
After arriving as a free agent from Toronto, he recorded just 10 points (2G, 8A) in 54 games. Moreover, he finished with a plus/minus of -18, highlighting the team’s struggles with him on the ice.
Donato is staying in town
On the bright side of news in Chi-town, the Blackhawks finally agreed to a contract extension with forward Ryan Donato. The 29-year-old had a breakout season with career-highs in goals, assists, and points— 31, 31, and 62, respectively.
After some uncertainty regarding his future, the two parties reached an agreement, signing a four-year, $16 million extension. Donato will carry an average annual salary of $4 million through the 2028–29 NHL season.
