Blackhawks' Face Troubling Decision With Veteran Blueliner

 

The Chicago Blackhawks are ushering in a new-era of hockey with Connor Bedard leading the way. Slowly, but surely, the Blackhawks continue to trade veteran talent, and their last move saw former Captain Nick Foligno dealt to the Minnesota Wild, a chance to play postseason hockey for a job well done. 

Now, the Blackhawks have another tough decision to make with pending unrestricted free agent Matt Grzelcyk. 

Signed as a free agent in July to a one-year, $1 million average annual value contract.

The 32-year-old blueliner didn't get traded in March, and that leaves general manager Kyle Davidson with another task ahead of July. 

Has he made enough contributions to the Blackhawks this season to stick around as another veteran to help mentor future generations of Blackhawks, including Louis Crevier?

Grzelcyk was a healthy-scratch in tonight's game against the Wild. Is this the start of the end of his time in Chicago?

With Matt Grzelcyk healthy-scratched, Ryan Donato is now the only Blackhawk to appear in all 67 games so far this season.

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) March 18, 2026

Blackhawks To Trade 593-Game NHL Veteran? 

In 66 games with the Blackhawks, he's scored zero goals and 12 assists. Against the Wild, who are poised for the playoffs, head coach Jeff Blashill has entrusted the defense of goaltender Spencer Knight to the rookies who need to play more reps in order to develop in the NHL. 

Grzelcyk has played 593 games in the NHL and scored 187 points (26-161) as a two-way veteran defenseman who has suited up for the Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Chicago Blackhawks. 

Rob Gray-Imagn Images