The Chicago Blackhawks are actively preparing for the upcoming 2025 NHL Entry Draft and the start of free agency. Here's a look at the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:
Minor Trade with the Bruins
On Friday, June 13th, the Blackhawks completed a minor trade with the Boston Bruins. Chicago sent the rights to defenseman Victor Soderstrom to Boston in exchange for defenseman Ryan Mast and a 2025 seventh-round draft pick. Soderstrom was initially acquired by the Blackhawks in March as part of a package that included Shea Weber's contract. While some believed Soderstrom could compete for a roster spot next season, the emergence of young defensemen like Kevin Korchinski, Artyom Levshunov, and Sam Rinzel made it seem less likely. Mast, a 6-foot-5, 221-pound defenseman, is expected to add size and physicality to the Rockford IceHogs' blue line.
Olympic Hopefuls
With the NHL returning to the Olympics in 2026, several young Blackhawks players are hoping to represent their countries in Italy. Frank Nazar and Alex Vlasic have been mentioned as potential candidates for Team USA after their strong performances at the IIHF World Championships. Connor Bedard is also in consideration for Team Canada, though he would need to have a major breakout in the early part of next season to secure a spot. Seth Jones and Patrick Kane were named to Team USA's initial roster in the past.
Jonathan Toews' Future
Jonathan Toews is nearing a decision on his NHL comeback after being out of the league since April 2023 due to health issues. Toews has stated that he is "100 percent committed" to playing again and his agent has been fielding calls from interested teams. Several teams are reportedly in the mix, including the Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Tampa Bay Lightning. The Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche are viewed as top contenders for Toews. He is expected to make a decision before the NHL Draft on June 28-29.
Several factors could influence Toews' decision, including the opportunity to win another Stanley Cup, the chance to play in his hometown of Winnipeg, and the potential to reunite with former teammates. The expectation is that he'll sign a one-year, bonus-heavy deal.
Other Blackhawks News and Rumors
The Blackhawks are entering a critical offseason with several key decisions to make that will shape the future of the team.
