Chicago Blackhawks acquire Andre Burakovsky from Seattle Kraken

The NHL's trade market is on fire at the moment and another deal has been completed.

🔔 Saturday morning trade

📰https://t.co/AbwI3XDkg5 pic.twitter.com/o5hDTSs7Au
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) June 21, 2025

The Seattle Kraken have shipped forward Andre Burakovsky to the Chicago Blackhawks, in exchange for forward Joe Veleno. Burakovsky, 30, has two seasons left on his contract at $5.5 million AAV, and last season scored 10 goals and 37 points in 79 games. After recording 61 points in his final season with the Colorado Avalanche in 2021-22, Burakovsky hasn't been able to provide consistent production with the Kraken, hence their openness to make the move.

Burakovsky has represented Sweden at the World Championship twice, including winning the bronze medal in 2024. He also helped Sweden to silver medals at the 2012 World U18 Championship and the 2014 World Junior Championship.

Veleno appeared in just 18 games last season for the Blackhawks, scoring three goals and seven points. The former 2018 first-round pick of the Detroit Red Wings is five years younger than Burakovsky, and comes at a much cheaper cap hit at just $2.25 million AAV, before becoming a restricted free agent at the end of next season.

Veleno opened last season with Detroit, notching 10 points (5G, 5A) in 56 games before being acquired by Chicago on March 7 in exchange for goaltender Petr Mrazek and Craig Smith.

Kraken GM Jason Botterill: “Andre was a valuable player for our organization during the three years he was here, and we wish him and his family the best of luck in Chicago. In return, we’ve acquired a young player with experience while also increasing our salary cap flexibility… https://t.co/WtDUt0vlbv
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 21, 2025