Major changes are on the horizon in Chicago. According to sources close to the organization, the Chicago Blackhawks are preparing to part ways with three key players this offseason as part of a sweeping roster overhaul designed to accelerate the team’s rebuild.
The decision, which has been described internally as “difficult but necessary,” stems from a combination of factors — including salary cap flexibility, disappointing performances, and a renewed focus on building around the team’s young core.
Although the Blackhawks have not officially announced the players involved, league insiders indicate that veteran forward Tyler Johnson, defenseman Connor Murphy, and goaltender Petr Mrazek are among those expected to be moved or bought out in the coming months.
Tyler Johnson, 33, battled injuries throughout the season but remained a respected presence in the locker room. Still, with his $5 million cap hit entering the final year of his contract, the Blackhawks appear ready to prioritize younger, cheaper options.
Connor Murphy, a longtime staple on Chicago’s blue line, also finds himself on the trade block. The 31-year-old defenseman still has term left on his deal, but the front office believes his departure could open up more minutes for developing prospects and future draft picks.
Petr Mrazek, who provided steady if unspectacular goaltending this season, is also expected to be on the move. With several promising goaltenders waiting in the pipeline, the Blackhawks are eager to transition to a younger tandem in net.
General Manager Kyle Davidson has repeatedly emphasized that while patience remains critical during the rebuild, the organization must be aggressive in creating the right environment for its next generation of stars, including 2023 No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard.
“We’re committed to building something sustainable,” Davidson said recently. “That sometimes means making hard decisions that serve the bigger picture.”
As the offseason approaches, Chicago fans should brace for even more changes — with the Blackhawks looking to stockpile draft capital, free up cap space, and continue laying the foundation for a new era at the United Center.
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