Here are three players the Chicago Blackhawks could potentially target with an offer sheet in 2025. Though NHL general managers rarely use offer sheets, they can be a strategic way to acquire young talent.
The St. Louis Blues recently demonstrated this by successfully acquiring former first-round picks Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg from the Edmonton Oilers. With over $30 million in projected cap space next offseason, the Chicago Blackhawks could be well-positioned to take advantage of cash-strapped teams and secure some promising young players.
Before discussing potential targets, it’s important to understand the criteria for a player to be eligible for an offer sheet. According to Sportingnews.com, a player can receive an offer sheet if they have had at least one NHL contract expire, have played at least 80 NHL games (or 28 if they are a goalie), are under 27 years old, have been given a qualifying offer from their current team, and do not have a contract for the upcoming season.
Nils Hoglander, Oliver Wahlstrom and Zac Jones
Now, let’s look at two forwards and one defenseman the Blackhawks could consider offering an offer sheet next summer:
1. Nils Hoglander:
– At 23, Hoglander was a second-round pick by Vancouver in 2019. Despite scoring 24 goals and recording 36 points last season, he averaged only 12:06 of ice time per game. If he doesn’t get a bigger role with the Canucks, he might seek an exit. Hoglander’s high skill level, versatility, and youth would be valuable assets for the Blackhawks long-term.
2. Oliver Wahlstrom:
– Wahlstrom, now 24, has shown flashes of his offensive talent, which first gained attention when he scored an incredible shootout goal at age nine. Despite being the 11th overall pick in 2018, Wahlstrom has struggled, managing just 34 goals and 67 points in 193 NHL games. Playing on defensive-minded Islanders teams has limited his opportunities in a top-nine role. If he can rediscover his scoring touch, he could be a powerful addition to the Blackhawks’ third line.
3. Zac Jones:
– Jones, 23, had an impressive two-year stint at UMass before signing with the Rangers in 2021. The undersized defenseman has scored 66 points in 106 AHL games and has 69 NHL games under his belt. However, he’s been overshadowed by K’Andre Miller and Ryan Lindgren on the Rangers’ left side. Given more opportunities, Jones could thrive with the Blackhawks, especially if their younger defensive prospects don’t develop as expected.
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