Ex-Sidney Crosby teammate signs Blackhawks PTO, but four NHL contenders still circling with serious interest

The Chicago Blackhawks have offered veteran defenseman Matt Grzelcyk a professional tryout contract, giving him a chance to showcase his skills this season. Coming off a 40-point campaign with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Grzelcyk remains a valuable commodity despite going unsigned during the summer.

While the Blackhawks present a fresh opportunity, his next move may not be decided in Chicago alone. Several teams are reportedly tracking his situation as training camps open.

Matt Grzelcyk’s NHL prospects and Blackhawks opportunity

According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, the Ottawa Senators, Colorado Avalanche, New York Islanders, and Anaheim Ducks are all keeping an eye on Grzelcyk if he doesn’t secure a full-time spot with Chicago. “Grzelcyk ended up taking a PTO with the Chicago Blackhawks.

He’s familiar with assistant coach Mike Vellucci from the Penguins last season. We’ll see whether that materializes into an NHL contract,” LeBrun noted.

“The Senators, Avalanche, Islanders, and Ducks would be other potential situations to monitor… Whatever happens, Grzelcyk should end up on a one-year, prove-it contract somewhere this season.”

For the Blackhawks, the move makes strategic sense. Chicago’s blue line struggled last season, contributing to a 25-46 record and a last-place finish in the Central Division.

Adding a veteran like Grzelcyk provides stability, leadership, and offensive upside from the back end. At 30 years old, he now has a chance to prove his worth and potentially secure a longer-term deal.

What Matt Grzelcyk brings to the table

If Grzelcyk can replicate his impact from Pittsburgh—where his offensive contributions stood out despite a smaller frame—the Blackhawks could gain a low-risk, high-reward addition. His puck-moving skills and experience could help stabilize a roster aiming to climb out of the basement.

Training camp and preseason performance will be crucial in determining whether he earns a permanent spot in Chicago or draws interest from other contending teams ready to bolster their defense.As the new NHL season approaches, all eyes will be on Grzelcyk. Whether he secures a lasting role with the Blackhawks or finds a home elsewhere, his journey highlights the delicate balance of opportunity and performance for veteran players in today’s league.Also Read: Did Clayton Kershaw do enough to be remembered as MLB’s greatest left-handed pitcher of all time?