Chicago Blackhawks: Offseason Priorities
The Chicago Blackhawks are looking ahead to their offseason, with significant cap space and valuable draft picks on the horizon. Their primary focus is securing a contract extension for Connor Bedard. The team also aims to bolster its defense, as all seven defensemen currently under contract are under 24 years old. The forward group is similarly young, requiring decisions on pending UFAs Ilya Mikheyev and Sam Lafferty. Additionally, the Blackhawks will evaluate forward Andre Burakovsky, who is entering the final year of his contract with a $5 million cap hit and has not reached 20 goals or 40 points since the 2021-22 season.
San Jose Sharks: Free Agent and Trade Options
The San Jose Sharks face a critical need to strengthen their defense this offseason, with only two players currently under contract on the blue line. Shakir Mukhamadullin is an RFA, and prospect Eric Pohlkamp may be ready for the NHL. UFAs Mario Ferraro and Vincent Desharnais are potential re-signing options. To contend for the playoffs next season, the Sharks will likely need to make one or two substantial defensive acquisitions.
Free Agent Options for the Sharks:
- Darren Raddysh (Tampa Bay Lightning): A 30-year-old who could be a valuable addition to the power play.
- John Carlson (Anaheim Ducks): At 36, age is a consideration, but he could serve as a bridge until prospects are ready.
- Jacob Trouba (Anaheim Ducks): GM Mike Grier is familiar with Trouba from their time with the New York Rangers. The 32-year-old brings physicality that Grier desires.
- Rasmus Andersson (Vegas Golden Knights): He is reportedly interested in extending his contract with Vegas.
Trade Options for the Sharks:
- Simon Nemec (New Jersey Devils): Opinions are divided on him, and the new Devils GM’s perspective is yet to be seen.
- Filip Hronek (Vancouver Canucks): His availability is uncertain, but he would not come cheap and could fill a No. 2 or 3 defenseman role.
- Darnell Nurse (Edmonton Oilers): His $9.25 million cap hit through 2030 is the primary concern for the 31-year-old.
- Morgan Rielly (Toronto Maple Leafs): His offensive production has declined, and there are questions about his defensive game and mobility. He is 32 and under contract through 2030 at $7.5 million.
- Dougie Hamilton (New Jersey Devils): With two years remaining on his $9 million contract, the 32-year-old previously blocked a trade to the Sharks. The team’s potential improvement could influence his decision this offseason.
Other potential targets or players who might become available include Roman Josi, Josh Morrissey, Adam Fox, Vladislav Gavrikov, Brandon Montour, Vince Dunn, Colton Parayko, Bowen Byram, and Owen Power.