3 Chicago Blackhawks Not Expected Back Next Season

The Chicago Blackhawks once again weren't able to live up to expectations, as they've seem to all but waste another prime season for Connor Bedard. Yes, injuries didn't help at all this season, and it wasn't all related to one element of their team why they didn't have success, but as we saw before the trade deadline, changes were needed, and more are expected heading into next season.

Look for GM Kyle Davidson to move on from certain free agents, while also being involved in the trade market, as this team continues to push for relevancy in the Western Conference. While there's a few young core pieces who aren't going anywhere, here's three Blackhawks who are not expected back for the 2026-27 season.

Sam Lafferty

It's been a disappointing season for Lafferty for many reasons, as he's only been able to appear in 22 games, chipping in with two points. The speedy versatile fourth liner is heading into free agency, and while there wasn't much of a market for him at the trade deadline, there's going to be a few teams who circle in to sign him at league minimum. The Blackhawks know Lafferty well, but it's going to be time to move on and reshape their bottom six.

Ilya Mikheyev

The speedy winger heads into free agency this summer and it's very likely the Blackhawks will be overbid for his services. Mikheyev's earning $4 million AAV, and it was actually quite surprising he wasn't moved ahead of the trade deadline, considering how far out the Blackhawks are from the playoff picture. Mikheyev's scored 12 goals and 26 points in 61 games, averages just under 18 minutes per night, and is a very effective penalty killer, thanks to his blazing speed.

2026 Second-Round Picks

While the Blackhawks have two first-round picks in what's shaping up to be a very deep 2026 first round, don't expect to see them select all three of their second round picks. They know they need some NHL talent added to their 2026-27 roster, and using these trade chips could allow them to land a top-six forward heading into next season. Look for Davidson to be aggressive at the draft, but expect to see the seconds moved, and not their first rounders.