The Chicago Blackhawks don’t look overly motivated to compete this upcoming season. If anything, the Blackhawks could be poised to be in the running for the top-overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
As such, the Blackhawks could be looking for cheap contracts to round out the depth in their roster. So, why not consider a former top blue liner on a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO)?
One such name that comes to mind is Marc-Edouard Vlasic. Vlasic was bought out by the San Jose Sharks earlier this summer. Since the 39-year-old hasn’t announced his retirement, he could be enticed to join the Blackhawks on a team-friendly deal.
At this point, Vlasic would be a longshot to join the club. Roster spots are few, with younger players getting first crack at them. But then again, adding a veteran presence with over 1,000 games of NHL experience could be something useful in the locker room.
Adding a veteran presence to support the Blackhawks’ young blue line core would be a valuable intangible that Vlasic brings to the table. That situation makes it worthwhile for the Blackhawks to consider bringing in the former Shark on a PTO this season.
Blackhawks Could Use Veteran Presence on Blue Line
The Blackhawks have an extremely young blue line core. Their oldest defenseman is Connor Murphy at 32. Then, the rest of the blue line does not exceed 24. Given such youth, the Blackhawks could use a veteran presence, even if it’s on the sidelines.
Bringing in Vlasic could be a good move for Chicago. If anything, Vlasic would be nothing more than an eighth defenseman at this point. But the Blackhawks can afford it. They have tons of cap space and don’t really need to take up a roster spot for him.
The expectation could be for Vlasic to take on more of a mentorship role. Perhaps it could even be a precursor to a role in management down the road. Who knows? That’s merely speculation. But it could be something Vlasic may consider.
The Blackhawks can’t overlook the value in solid veterans who could provide the team’s up-and-coming stars a role model to look up to.
Vlasic Could Be Looking to Go out on Own Terms
After the unceremonious way in which the Sharks dumped Vlasic, he could be looking for one last shot. That opportunity could allow Vlasic to leave the game on his terms. It’s not uncommon for former stars to seek one final shot before walking away from the game, having given it their all.
Signing Vlasic would be a low-risk move. The Blackhawks could ultimately sign him to a league-minimum deal. If things don’t work out in camp, Chicago could easily cut ties with the veteran rearguard. That situation makes adding Vlasic the type of low-risk move the Hawks should look into.
But if things do work out, the Blackhawks could get somewhat of a resurgent season. It would be a nice ending to Vlasic’s career if he could have one final productive season before calling it quits.
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