NHL Rumors: 3 Free-Agent Destinations for Blackhawks' Ilya Mikheyev

Chicago Blackhawks forward Ilya Mikheyev will be a player to watch now that the offseason is here for the Original Six club. The 31-year-old forward is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), and it will be interesting to see if the Blackhawks extend him. He has been a very good addition for them, but it would also make sense if he tested the market after his strong season. In 77 games this season, he had 18 goals and a career-high 36 points.

If Mikheyev ends up becoming a UFA this year, look for these three teams to try to sign him in free agency.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets should look to improve their bottom six this offseason, so it would make sense if they targeted Mikheyev this offseason. He could be a good fit on their third line and would give them another strong option for their penalty kill. While he would not be the flashiest of pickups for the Blue Jackets, he would be a very good two-way winger for them to add.

Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers could be a team to keep an eye on this summer when it comes to Mikheyev. They need more secondary scoring in their bottom six, and Mikheyev is capable of providing just that when playing at his best. He not only showed this during the 2025-26 season but also this past campaign as well with his 20-goal campaign. Thus, he could be a good player for Edmonton to sign.

Vegas Golden Knights

The Golden Knights also should be looking to improve their forward depth this offseason, and bringing in Mikheyev would do just that. He could be a strong pickup for their third line, but also could move up and down their lineup if needed due to his versatility.