Blackhawks Eye Offer Sheet Move, Tuch, Thomas, and Dorofeyev in Crosshairs

The Chicago Blackhawks are entering the summer with an open mind and a willingness to make bold moves. According to The Athletic’s Scott Powers, the organization is exploring all avenues, trades, free agency, and even an offer sheet, to bolster their roster around star center Connor Bedard. While the team remains on the playoff bubble, GM Quentin Dupont has signaled a readiness to act aggressively if the right opportunity arises.

The most high-profile name linked to Chicago is Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch. Tuch, 30, is in the final year of his contract and has drawn interest from multiple teams. The question remains whether the Blackhawks would be willing to commit seven years and $10 million annually to secure him. Tuch’s 2024-25 season saw him post 63 points in 82 games, making him a coveted commodity.

On the trade front, the Blackhawks have been connected to St. Louis Blues forward Robert Thomas. Thomas, 24, has averaged 55 points per season since 2021-22 but is still under contract with St. Louis. While no official talks have broken down, Powers notes that the Blues may be reluctant to move their top-six asset unless they receive top-end return.

Another potential target is Minnesota Wild forward Ryan Hartman, who has one year remaining on his contract. Hartman, 28, has been a reliable two-way pivot, averaging 17 goals and 43 points over the last two seasons. If the Wild are looking to clear cap space to pursue a top center or sign Quinn Hughes, Hartman could become available.

Chicago’s offer sheet strategy could also come into play. The team has been linked to Vegas Golden Knights’ forward Pavel Dorofeyev, a 26-year-old Russian prospect who has shown promise in limited NHL time. If the Golden Knights can’t meet his expected $10 million annual demand, Dorofeyev could become a target for Chicago, though the cost would be steep, likely two first-round picks and two secondary picks.

“I assume most teams willing to trade a significant player are looking for a hockey trade and want to get a significant player back,” Powers said. “Too many teams still think they’re Stanley Cup contenders.”

With the NHL Draft and free agency just weeks away, the Blackhawks have time to refine their strategy. The key will be balancing the need for immediate help with long-term flexibility, especially with Bedard anchoring their future. As the summer unfolds, Chicago’s moves could define their playoff chances, and the direction of their rebuild.

Next deadline: July 13, the start of free agency.