Chicago Blackhawks buying out defenceman T.J Brodie

The Chicago Blackhawks are calling it quits with defenceman T.J Brodie.

Reports have surfaced suggesting the Blackhawks are waiving the veteran defenceman for the purpose of buying out his contract, which has one year left at $3.75 million AAV.

TJ Brodie is on waivers for purposes of a buyout

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 21, 2025

Brodie appeared in 54 games for the Blackhawks last season, scoring two goals and adding eight assists. He averaged 15:37 of ice-time per game,  and towards the end of the season, became a regular in the press box.

Here's the buyout breakdown per PuckPedia: 

TJ Brodie	2025-26	2026-27
Base Salary	($775,000)	-
Total Salary	($3,225,000)	-
Signing Bonus	$2,450,000	-
Annual Buyout Cost	$258,333	$258,333
Original Cap Hit	$3,750,000	-
Actual Cap Hit	$3,233,333	$258,333
Savings 100.0%	$516,667	$-258,333

Brodie, 35, is likely to catch on with another team next season, and he's shown in the past he's capable of playing a bottom-pair role on some very good teams. Throughout his 15 year career, Brodie has played for the Calgary Flames, Toronto Maple Leafs, and one season in Chicago. Brodie has dressed in 962 career NHL games, recording 312 points, and has also chipped in with 22 points in 56 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Photo credit:  Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images